Healthcare Assistant - Maternity Leave Cover

About Optimum Care Group

Optimum Care Group is Northern Ireland's leading health and social care organization, offering dedicated services through various nursing homes and community care programs.

Position Overview

We are seeking a full-time Healthcare Assistant for a 12-month maternity leave cover contract at Abbey View Nursing Home in Bangor. This role involves working three 12-hour shifts weekly from 8am to 8pm, Monday through Sunday, between 06/09/2026 and 06/09/2027. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist residents with personal care tasks such as washing, dressing, toileting, incontinence care, and mealtime support, following safe client handling procedures and using necessary equipment.
• Perform kitchen duties including basic meal preparation.
• Carry out laundry tasks such as washing, drying, and ironing.
• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions.
• Accurately complete required paperwork and maintain regular communication with the line manager.
• Adhere strictly to company policies, procedures, health and safety guidelines, and maintain confidentiality.
• Obtain and maintain registration with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) and follow their Codes of Practice.
• Work cooperatively within a team to deliver a high quality of care.
• Perform other reasonable duties as assigned.

Essential Criteria

• No prior experience required.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous kitchen or laundry experience in employment or voluntary roles.
• Currently studying for or holding a care-related qualification.
• Registration with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC).
• Experience working in a nursing home or similar setting including personal care duties.

Employment Terms and Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate of £12.81 with enhanced rates on bank holidays.
• Paid training and induction provided.
• 5.6 weeks of annual leave pro rata.
• Access to an employee mental health support line.
• Free on-site parking and uniform.
• Company pension plan.
• Eligibility to apply for a Blue Light discount card.

Additional Information

The company promotes equal opportunities and enforces a strict no-smoking policy. Applicants who have applied within the last six months should not reapply. A satisfactory enhanced Access NI background check is mandatory. The organization has policies regarding the secure handling of disclosure data and recruitment of ex-offenders, which do not automatically bar employment but require full disclosure of convictions.