Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

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  1. Performance and quality management

    Our performance and quality managers make sure that our patients receive the best possible care by identifying high quality performance. They will also identify any risks and issues that may affect the standards expected and work with healthcare professionals to ensure our patients are protected.   

    The entry requirements and training available, will depend on the precise role you’re applying for. Some courses relevant to managers in performance and quality may be available in-house. The Institute of Healthcare Managers and Association of Litigation and Risk Managers provide relevant courses.
    Staff in the NHS will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern. Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. This pay system covers all staff except doctors, dentists, and the most senior managers (where very senior managers pay apply). If you work in performance and quality management, your salary will depend on your role. This could be anywhere between AfC bands 5 and 9 depending on the precise role and level of responsibility. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS.
    To work in performance and quality management, you’ll typically need good communication skills, leadership skills , organisational skills, a willingness to work with others and respect their views, a good level of numeracy and computer literacy, negotiating skills, the ability to challenge the way things are and find better alternatives, honesty and fairness in dealing with other people and a a commitment to the ideals of quality and fairness in delivering healthcare.
    With further training and/or experience, you may be able to develop your career further into more senior managerial roles.
  2. Psychological wellbeing practitioner

    Psychological wellbeing practitioners (PWPs) are trained to assess and support people with common mental health problems – mainly anxiety disorders and depression – to manage their recovery. 

    All PWPs will complete an accredited IAPT training course. The courses typically consist of 45 days of academic work (one day per week) and four days supervised practice, usually distributed over an academic year. A level 6 apprenticeship standard for psychological wellbeing practitioners has also been approved for delivery. Whilst in training PWPs are employed by a local NHS Talking Therapies for Anxiety and Depression service. The PWP training is open to people with a range of experience. Those with a degree will typically undertake a postgraduate certificate and those without a degree will normally undertake an equivalent graduate-level qualification. The training courses are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
    Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. This pay system covers all staff except doctors, dentists and the most senior managers. Trainees are appointed at band 4 and will usually work standard hours of 37.5 per week. Once qualified as a PWP, you would usually progress to a band 5 position. Terms and conditions can vary for employers outside of the NHS.
    Experience of working with people with mental health problems is desirable, excellent interpersonal skills are essential. If you're applying for a role either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services, you'll be asked to show how you think the values of the NHS Constitution apply in your everyday work. The same will be true if you are applying for a university course funded by the NHS.
    As a qualified and experienced PWP you can apply for more senior posts at band 6, with additional management and specialist responsibilities. You could further your career by undertaking CBT training.
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