Visa Note
While this employer offers a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible candidates, all applicants must verify their visa eligibility requirements directly with the employer. Even with sponsorship, UK immigration regulations may have specific criteria that must be met before employment can commence.
About the Role
The Haematology department at Blackpool Victoria Hospital is seeking an HCPC registered Biomedical Scientist to join their friendly and hard-working team. This is an excellent opportunity for both experienced professionals and those with relevant accredited degrees seeking a trainee position. The role offers development potential with progression to Specialist BMS (band 6) possible upon competency assessment for out-of-hour shift participation.
Employer Information
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a prominent healthcare provider serving the Blackpool community. As an NHS employer, they offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development. The trust is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services and maintaining a supportive work environment for all staff members.
Location and Working Environment
The position is based at Pathology, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, located on Whinney Heys Road in Blackpool, FY3 8NR. Blackpool is a vibrant seaside town in Lancashire, offering a mix of urban amenities and coastal living. The hospital provides modern facilities and a collaborative working environment focused on delivering exceptional patient care.
Employment Terms
This is a permanent, full-time position offering long-term career stability. The role is structured as a development opportunity with clear progression pathways. Initially, working hours will be 9:00 AM to 5:15 PM, Monday through Friday, during the training period, with the expectation to participate in a 24/7 out-of-hours shift rota as a Specialist BMS band 6.
Salary and Benefits
The salary structure depends on employment status and experience. Trainee BMS positions are paid at band 5 annex 21, equivalent to 75% of the top of band 5. HCPC registered band 5 BMS receive the full band 5 entry grade rate, with potential progression to band 6 following training and competency assessment. The NHS offers comprehensive benefits including pension schemes, annual leave, health service discounts, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will work across Haematology, Blood Transfusion, and Immunology laboratories. Primary duties include analyzing, processing, and validating specialist investigations to aid in diagnosis and disease monitoring. Post holders will ensure high-quality and timely analysis of patient blood samples while maintaining strict adherence to laboratory protocols and quality standards.
Essential Qualifications
Candidates must have HCPC registration and an IBMS Accredited BSc degree. A commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is essential. The role requires the ability to work effectively as part of a healthcare team, demonstrating excellent communication skills and attention to detail in all laboratory procedures.
Desirable Qualifications
While not mandatory, specialism in Haematology/Blood Transfusion is considered advantageous. Experience working in Haematology and/or Transfusion departments is highly valued. Additional desirable qualifications include experience in supervising or training staff and a demonstrated commitment to out-of-hours working and 24-hour service delivery.
Required Experience
Essential experience includes working as part of a team in a healthcare setting. Previous experience in pathology or similar laboratory environments is beneficial. The role requires computer literacy, including proficiency with pathology systems and Microsoft packages, along with the ability to work flexibly to meet changing service requirements.
Application Process
All applications must be submitted through the NHS Jobs website. The application deadline is 29 December 2025. Candidates should prepare a comprehensive application highlighting their qualifications, experience, and commitment to professional development. Supporting documents including CV, certificates, and references should be readily available if requested during the selection process.
International Applicants
Applications from international candidates requiring skilled worker sponsorship are welcomed and will be considered alongside all other applications. The employer offers Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible candidates. International applicants should verify their eligibility through the UK Visas and Immigration website and be prepared to provide criminal record certificates from countries where they have resided for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
Professional Registration
Applicants must hold current UK professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). International candidates should verify the recognition of their qualifications through the NHS Careers website for overseas healthcare professionals. The trust may require additional verification of international qualifications and professional standing.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This position is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) will be required to check for any previous criminal convictions. All candidates must be prepared to undergo this standard pre-employment screening process.
Career Development
The role offers excellent career development opportunities within the NHS. Trainee positions provide structured learning pathways with potential for rapid progression to specialist roles. The trust supports continuing professional development through training programs, workshops, and access to educational resources to help staff advance their careers in biomedical science.
Team Structure
Post holders will report to the laboratory senior team and work collaboratively across multiple disciplines. The department values teamwork, communication, and mutual support. Regular team meetings, quality assurance activities, and professional development sessions ensure a cohesive working environment focused on continuous improvement.
Quality Assurance
The laboratory operates under strict quality assurance protocols aligned with national standards. All staff members are expected to participate in quality control procedures, audit processes, and continuous improvement initiatives. The department maintains ISO accreditation and participates in external quality assessment schemes to ensure the highest standards of laboratory practice.
Technology and Equipment
The laboratory is equipped with modern analyzers and information systems to support efficient sample processing and result reporting. Staff receive comprehensive training on all equipment and laboratory information management systems. The trust continually invests in new technologies to enhance service delivery and improve patient outcomes.
Training and Support
New employees receive comprehensive induction and on-the-job training tailored to their specific role and experience level. The department has a structured competency assessment framework to ensure all staff meet required standards. Regular supervision and appraisal sessions provide ongoing support and feedback for professional development.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and search for reference number 382-CS56-25. Complete the online application form, ensuring all sections are filled out accurately and honestly. International applicants should include details of their visa status and eligibility requirements. For questions about the application process or role requirements, contact Mark Wrigley, Haematology Laboratory Manager, at mark.wrigley1@nhs.net or 01253951174.
Equal Opportunities
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All applicants will be considered based on their merits, abilities, and potential to contribute to the success of the organization, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
Further Information
For additional information about Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, please visit their website at https://www.bfwh.nhs.uk/. The privacy notice for service users is also available on the website for reference. Candidates are encouraged to review the attached supporting documents including the job description, person specification, and conditions of service before submitting their application.