St George’s Hospital’s record-breaking Neonatal Unit is launching a drive to recruit more nurses – and is opening its doors to show how the team cares for some of the sickest babies in the country.

The Neonatal team recently hit the headlines after caring for St George’s youngest-ever patient, Abiageal Peters, born at just 23 weeks and operated on at just six days old. Now they are looking to recruit more than 20 new Band 5 nurses – with final year university students encouraged to apply – along with Band 6 nurses and some Band 8 nursing management roles.

The Neonatal Unit at St George’s Hospital in Tooting, South West London – home of ’24 Hours in A&E’ – hosts the special open day on Thursday 6 April 2017 from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Prospective recruits are invited to visit at any time, tour the Neonatal Unit and see its facilities, and ask both senior nurses and newer starters about working at St George’s.

Previous neonatal nursing experience is not essential – many of the team have paediatric and general adult nursing backgrounds. Full details including nurses’ own stories are on the St George’s website: https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/work-with-us/unique-career-opportunities-in-neonatal-nursing/

Doris Jackman, Head of Nursing, Newborn Services, said: “Whether you are about to qualify or newly-qualified, and interested in a career in Neonatal nursing, or would like to switch to  this challenging and hugely rewarding specialism, please do have a look at what we can offer in these permanent roles.

Benefits on offer to joining the St George’s Neonatal Unit as a Band 5 include

  • Comprehensive Induction Programme
  • Preceptorship
  • Band 5 Development Programme
  • Fully funded post-graduate Neonatal course
  • Supportive environment in a busy Acute Trust, and clear progression routes to Band 6

Nurses can also apply now for Band 5 roles from £26,291 per year, including Inner London Weighting, via NHS Jobs (www.jobs.nhs.uk) – Job Reference: 200-NNU-OPEN-DAY. Further information on the Band 6 and Band 8 roles are available on the St George’s website: https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/work-with-us/unique-career-opportunities-in-neonatal-nursing/welcome-from-doris-jackman-head-of-nursing-newborn-services-neonatal-unit/

Doris added: “We are a friendly and hugely committed team, working in partnership with parents and their families to deliver a high quality service. The unit cares for around 650 babies per year and also provides a community follow-up service.

“No family or baby is the same and we are dedicated to making their experience as good as it possibly can be at what is always an incredibly difficult time. I believe nurses will find this one of the most inspiring, exciting, and supportive environments possible to start, develop or grow their career.”