Health sector careers
There are more than two million people working in healthcare in the UK, and with more than 300 different careers needed to provide first-class care to patients, there is bound to be a job to suit you.
The health sector is made up of the publicly-funded NHS, a growing independent sector of private healthcare providers, and voluntary sector organisations that work in the field of health. While the NHS is the largest employer, private and voluntary healthcare providers play a vital and growing role.
Working in the NHS
The NHS employs more than 1.3 million people in England alone. It is committed to offering development and learning opportunities for all staff, so no matter where you start your career you’ll have access to training and be given every chance to progress.
The NHS is committed to career development and job satisfaction for its employees. You will receive an annual personal review and development plan and will be encouraged to extend your skills and knowledge to take on new responsibilities. Through the personal development review process you will be able to progress within the NHS, either in one particular profession or across different areas.
Download the useful workbook Me and My PDR which is designed to support you through your appraisal process.
More information on working in the NHS can be found on the NHS Careers website.
Working in the independent sector
Independent sector healthcare providers play a vital and growing role. Working in the independent sector you may be dealing with NHS patients or offering a private service. Already over 80 per cent of people using mental health services in the independent sector are NHS patients and by 2008 it is thought that one in seven non-emergency NHS patients will be treated in the independent sector.
The sector is constantly changing as new services are registered. It can include acute services, hospices, family planning services, dialysis, fertility clinics and a range of mental health services.
Working in the voluntary sector
The voluntary sector is growing, and increasing its capability as a high quality provider of health services. There are 6,289 registered charities involved in health and well-being in London alone, providing a broad range of paid job opportunities for people interested in working in the health sector.
Charities often focus on particular health topics such as dealing with cancer, people with disabilities or young people's sexual health and these will drive the work you do.
For information on the charities and job opportunities in the voluntary sector visit the Working For A Charity website.
Volunteering is a great way to give something back to society or gain new skills and experience. The health and social care field offers a wide range of opportunities for those considering volunteer work.
For information on volunteering visit the Volunteering England website.