Specialist Orthoptist

Job overview

This is an opportunity for an enthusiastic and motivated Orthoptist to join our team at the Sussex Eye Hospital, Brighton. The department which consists of 7 Orthoptists and 2 optometrists provides a comprehensive service involving adult and paediatric Orthoptic work. The specialities covered include ocular motility, neuro-ophthalmology, Botulinum toxin, adjustable sutures, visual fields, stroke, CVI, cataract pre-assessment and secondary visual screening. The department is an HCPC validated training centre for undergraduate students. CPD and research are actively encouraged. Newly qualified Orthoptists may apply (Band 5 payscale applicable) and will be supported by local and Trust wide preceptorship.

You must hold a degree/diploma in Orthoptics and be registered with the HCPC. 

Main duties of the job

The post-holder will contribute to a comprehensive and quality Orthoptic service for patients referred to the Orthoptic Department, to provide excellent Orthoptic care for both Paediatric and Adult Strabismus patients.. They will be an excellent team player working within a multi-disciplinary team to provide appropriate assessment diagnosis and treatment for Orthoptic patients. They will also work in Specialist Cataract Assessment clinics. As there are close links with Stroke and Neurology services assessment of these patients is carried out, including neurological visual fields. 

Working for our organisation

At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust. 

We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We’re here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our Wellbeing Programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves. 

As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do. 

We look forward to receiving your application and the start of your journey with UHSussex.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The post-holder will contribute to a comprehensive and quality Orthoptic service for patients referred to the Eye Department. They will work within a multi-disciplinary team to provide appropriate assessment diagnosis and treatment for Orthoptic patients. They will also work in Specialist Cataract Assessment clinics.

Please see attached Job Description for full details. 

Person specification

Knowledge Training and Experience

Essential criteria

Experience of managing Paediatric orthoptic patients, including children with special needs Experience of managing Adult orthoptic patients, including strabismus and neuro ophthalmology

Desirable criteria

Experience working in a team and single handed Experience in Neurological Visual field testing Substantial post graduate experience working as an Orthoptist

Values and Attitudes

Essential criteria

The ability to handle difficult situations calmly and effectively To demonstrate tact and empathy when dealing with patients and their carers To maintain Trust and department values

Communication and Relationship Skills

Essential criteria

Excellent written and verbal skills Ability to develop a good rapport with patients/parents To be able to communicate effectively with patients with special needs To be able to work under pressure in abusy environment To be able to develop good working relationships with all hospital staff you encounter

Desirable criteria

Evidence of presentation skills

Planning and organisational skills

Essential criteria

Good organisational skills Effectively plan and manage own work load

Patient Care

Essential criteria

Ability to diagnose and management a comprehensive range of ocular motility disorders Demonstrate evidence based practice

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Essential criteria

Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role). Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues

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