REFERENCE NUMBER: WS/2015/033
JOB TITLE: CLINICAL SCIENTIST (EMBRYOLOGIST)
GRADE: BAND 7
LOCATION: EDINBURGH FERTILITY AND REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINE CENTRE
HOURS: 37.5
CONTRACT DURATION: FIXED TERM – 1 YEAR
CLOSING DATE: 8TH APRIL 2015
SALARY SCALE: £31,383 - £41,373
Apply on-line www.jobs.scot.nhs.uk
**Please note – the e-mail address you provide on the application form will be used to
communicate any further correspondence relating to this vacancy**
This post requires the post holder to have a PVG Scheme membership/ record. If the post
holder is not a current PVG member for the required regulatory group (i.e. child and/or adult)
then an application will need to be made to Disclosure Scotland and deemed satisfactory
before they can begin in post.
NHS LOTHIAN JOB APPLICATION PACK
This information package has been compiled to provide prospective candidates with details of the post
advertised.
The contents of this package are as follows:








General Information for Candidates
Working in Edinburgh and the Lothian’s
Working Time Regulations Form (please complete and return with application form)
Person Specification and Job Description
NHS Lothian - Our Values
Information on Application Process
Workforce Equality Monitoring
Equal Opportunities Policy Statement
GENERAL INFORMATION FOR CANDIDATES
Data Protection Act 1988
Please note that any personal information obtained from you throughout the recruitment process will be
collected, stored and used in line with the Data Protection Act 1998. Information will be available to the
recruiting manager and to the Human Resource staff.
Counter Fraud
NHS Lothian is under a duty to protect the public funds it administers, and to this end will use the information
you have provided on your application form for the prevention and detection of fraud. It will also share this
information with other bodies responsible for auditing or administering public funds for these purposes. More
detail on this responsibility is on NHS Lothian’s intranet (Counter-Fraud and Theft page) and further
information is available at http://www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/work/nfi.php.
References
All jobs are only offered following receipt of two satisfactory written references. At least one reference must
be from your current/most recent employer, or your course tutor if you are currently a student. If you have
not been employed or have been out of employment for a considerable period of time, you may give the
name of someone who knows you well enough to confirm information given and to comment on your ability
to do the job.
Disclosure Scotland
Where a Disclosure or Protection of Vulnerable Groups Check is deemed necessary for a post, the
successful candidate will be required to undergo an appropriate check. Further details on the Recruitment of
Ex-Offenders are available from the recruitment centre.
Work Visa
If you require a Work Visa, please seek further guidance on current immigration rules which can be found on
the Home Office website www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk
Overseas Registration and Qualifications
NHS Lothian will check you have the necessary professional registration, where appropriate. If you require a
qualification for this role but are not regulated by a professional body (e.g. NMC, GMC, HCPC etc), you will
need to provide an official translation, notarised by a solicitor, of your overseas qualifications to be checked
by the recruiting manager. Please ensure that this is available before applying for this post.
Job Interview Guarantee Scheme
As a Disability Symbol user we recognise the contribution that all individuals can make to the organisation
regardless of their abilities. As part of our ongoing commitment to extending employment opportunities, all
applicants who are disabled and who meet the minimum criteria expressed in the job description will be
guaranteed an interview.
Terms and Conditions
For an overview of our Agenda for Change terms and conditions visit: www.msg.scot.nhs.uk/pay/agenda-forchange
Travel Expenses
Travel expenses are not normally reimbursed for interviews, if you are selected for interview and wish to
enquire about the possibility of being reimbursed then the request should be directed to the recruiting
manager or interview panel chair.
WORKING IN EDINBURGH AND THE LOTHIAN’S
NHS Lothian offers excellent career prospects and a wide range of job opportunities for potential employees.
It employs approximately 24,000 staff and offers training and development opportunities as well as excellent
staff benefits.
The information provided below aims to help support and guide both prospective applicants and new
employees unfamiliar with Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Edinburgh and the Lothian’s
NHS Lothian serves a population of approximately 800,000 people living in and around Edinburgh,
Scotland’s historic capital city. The geographical area known as Lothian region covers 700 square miles,
comprising the City of Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian.
It is a region of exceptional beauty and contrast, from the splendour of Edinburgh to the beauty and variety of
the hills, countryside and coastline. The nearest major town outside of Edinburgh is Livingston, a thriving
location in the heart of West Lothian. As well as many sites of historic interest, the region boasts a host of
recreational activities for all ages.
Useful Contacts
For useful guidance on relocating to Scotland visit: www.talentscotland.com
For a comprehensive list of services to help moving to the City of Edinburgh, please visit the City of
Edinburgh Council Website at: www.edinburgh.gov.uk
.
NHS Lothian
__________________________________
WORKING TIME REGULATIONS
RECRUITMENT PRO-FORMA
In accordance with Working Time Regulations, no individual should knowingly be
contracted to work for more than an average of 48 hours per week.
For Completion by Applicant (to be submitted along with application form)
- Do you intend on holding any other employment (either NHS or non-NHS)
YES / NO
If yes please complete the details below:
Name and address of additional employer(s)
Average number of hours worked for this employer per week
Signed
Name
For Completion by Appointment Panel
- Would the offer of this post put the applicant in a position whereby they would
exceed the 48-hour working limit?
YES/NO
Signed
Please Note - It is the responsibility of the appointment panel to ascertain whether the
prospective employee intends to retain any other post held in addition to the one for
which they are applying.
Refer to the Recruitment Guidance Pack for further information regarding working
time regulations.
An opportunity has arisen for a Clinical Embryologist to join the embryology team at Edinburgh Fertility and
Reproductive Endocrine Centre at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. The successful applicant will be involved in
the full range of Assisted Conception laboratory work in the Assisted Conception Programme, currently
offering 550cycles of IVF/ICSI annually and 300-400 frozen embryo transfers. The successful candidate will
also be expected to take part in the ongoing quality control programme within the unit. Applicants should hold
a relevant degree in Life Sciences and have a minimum of 3 years clinical embryology experience. An ICSI
or embryo biopsy licence would be advantageous. All candidates should be members of the professional
body (ACE) and preference will be given to candidates who are registered with the Health and Care
Professions Council (HCPC) or eligible to apply for such a registration. The post is initially for one year.
Enquiries should be directed to Sue Pickering
sue.pickering@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk)
Person Specification for Registered Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
SPECIFICATION
Qualifications
ESSENTIAL
 First or Second class Bachelor of
Science Degree in life sciences
(or an equivalent qualification)
from an EU University which is
acceptable to the Health
Professionals Council
DESIRABLE
 Relevant higher degree
Professional
requirements
 Certificate and/or Diploma in
Clinical Embryology awarded by
the Association of Clinical
Embryologists and the Institute of
Biology
 Registration with the Health
Professions Council (or eligible
for and working towards
registration)
 Recognised by the HFEA as an
ICSI practitioner
 Recognised as embryo biopsy
practitioner
Knowledge
 Awareness and understanding of
current issues in assisted
conception
 Awareness of the Human
Fertilisation and Embryology Act
(1990) and HFEA Code of
practise
Previous
experience
 Experience within the field of
assisted conception and
reproductive medicine
 Computer literate
 Micromanipulation experience
 Research experience
 NHS experience
Responsibility
 Able to accept responsibility for
procedures within a working
environment
 Able to accept responsibility for
functions within a working
environment
Team Work
 Able to work within a
multidisciplinary team
 Previous experience of working
as part of a multidisciplinary team
Organisational
Skills
 Able to make efficient use of time
and to complete workload and
tasks
 Able to prioritise tasks
Flexibility &
Adaptability
 To have a flexible approach to
work (including out of normal
hours)
 Able to adapt to the changing
needs of the unit
Initiative
 Able to work unsupervised
 Able to work under own initiative
 Able to assess situations and
suggest possible solutions in
 Problem solving skills-be able to
respond to unexpected issues
Commitment
 Able to work with a high level of
commitment to deliver the
highest possible standard of
service at all times
Confidentiality
 Understanding of the importance
of patient confidentiality
Special Conditions
 To have a meticulous approach
to work
 To have an excellent attendance
record
order to enhance the service
JOB DESCRIPTION
1. JOB IDENTIFICATION
Job Title:
Registered Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
Responsible to (insert job title): Consultant Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
Department(s):
Edinburgh Fertility and Reproductive Endocrine Centre
Directorate:
Women’s and Children’s Health
Operating Division:
No of Job Holders:
Last Update (insert date):
Lothian University Hospitals Division
2
March 2012
2. JOB PURPOSE
As part of a multidisciplinary team the postholder will provide a comprehensive, high quality and highly
specialised laboratory services in the area of Clinical Embryology, within the Assisted Conception
Programme (ACP).
3. DIMENSIONS
The post holder will work within the Edinburgh Fertility and Reproductive Endocrine Centre based on the
RIE site. The ACP performs approximately 600 cycles of infertility treatment and 500 laboratory
investigations per year.
The service provides comprehensive fertility care for couples in Edinburgh and South East Scotland. It
operates in conjunction with other users such as NHS Lothian, primary care and other stakeholders to
ensure consistent standards of fertility care are applied throughout Scotland.
The post holder will provide a highly specialised clinical scientific/embryological service within the
Assisted Conception Programme, within a team of five Embryologists (One Consultant Clinical Scientist,
three Clinical Scientists and one Trainee Clinical Scientist) and a Biomedical Scientist (BMS1)
4. ORGANISATIONAL POSITION
Consultant Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
Senior Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
This post
Trainee Clinical Scientist (Embryology)x2
Biomedical Scientist (Level 1)
5. ROLE OF DEPARTMENT
To provide a high quality, safe and supportive environment in order to care for patients within the
speciality of fertility and reproductive problems/conditions meeting the identified physical and
psychosocial needs, and ensuring the highest standard of patient care and management.
To offer fertility investigations and treatment (Level II and III services), and to provide a fertility service
which is agreed by the management and delivered within the agreed resource management.
NHS Lothian University Hospital Division offers diversity of first class patient services and promotes the
highest standards of patient care and management.
6. KEY RESULT AREAS
1. To provide a highly specialist clinical laboratory service in the areas of Embryology and
Andrology.
2. To be responsible, as a Clinical Scientist, for providing a high standard of patient care.
3. To adhere at all times to the Standards of the national regulatory body (Human Fertilisation and
Embryology Authority –HFEA).
4. To be responsible for own work whilst adhering to the laboratory rota of clinical duties, under
the overall supervision of the Senior or Consultant embryologist.
5. To perform the following IVF procedures and laboratory duties according to the laboratory rota,
using existing Standard Operating Procedures.
 Semen analysis
 Sperm preparation for IVF, ICSI & IUI cycles
 Oocyte retrievals
 Gamete & embryo cryopreservation
 Gamete & embryo thawing
 Embryo transfers
 Fertilisation checks
 Embryo quality assessment & monitoring
 Insemination for IVF
 Collecting and analysing sperm from micro-epididymal sperm aspiration (MESA) samples &
testicular biopsies.
 Safe disposal of unused gametes / embryos after treatment
 Setting up culture dishes


Monitoring & maintaining appropriate liquid nitrogen levels for the normal function of the
cryofridges
QC checks and validation of laboratory equipment
6. To carry out the highly specialised insemination procedure of Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
7. When trained and fully competent, to carry out the highly specialised procedure of embryo
biopsy for the purposes of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis
8. To carry out witnessing of all embryological procedures as required by the HFEA on a daily
basis
9. To liaise on a daily basis with other members of the multidisciplinary team, regarding
interpretation of results, provision of advice on appropriate treatment methods, and planning of
treatment schedules.
10. To communicate on an occasional basis, when required, with other hospital departments e.g.
pharmacy, security, estates, procurement, and with external organisations e.g. other IVF
centres, suppliers of equipment and consumables, universities.
11. To communicate effectively with patients e.g. regarding the interpretation of results, embryo
quality and suitability for uterine transfer and cryopreservation, and outcome of embryo
thawing.
12. To participate in internal laboratory quality control measures to meet ISO9001 standards, and in
external quality control measures e.g. United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment
Scheme for Andrology
13. To participate in ongoing research & development activity within the Assisted Conception
Programme (including internal audits as part of quality control and service improvement)
according to the schedule designated by the Consultant Clinical Scientist (Embryology).
14. To participate in the review/modification/editing of existing laboratory protocols and risk
assessments and the generation of new protocols.
15. To participate in service evaluation, audit and troubleshooting, and the introduction of
new/improved procedures.
16. To participate in the weekend working rota and emergency 24-hour alarm on-call rota.
17. To organise and prioritise own workload on a daily basis, whilst adhering to the laboratory rota
of duties.
18. To participate in appropriate Continuous Professional Development activities, including
attendance at local and national/international scientific meetings.
19. To acquire and keep up to date, the relevant practical and technical skills and knowledge
required to carry out the job of a Clinical Scientist (Embryology). To keep up to date with
changes to HFEA legislation which may change clinical practise.
20. To provide very occasional supervision and training for junior embryologists and biomedical
scientists as delegated by the Consultant Clinical Scientist.
21. To attend and participate in Embryology and unit team meetings.
22. To regularly undertake record keeping as part of the quality control procedures (temperature &
CO2 levels of the incubators, temperature of the warmed stages, liquid nitrogen levels, etc)
23. To perform administrative work (patient record keeping, filing and other specific designated
duties eg ordering goods and equipment via procurement) on a regular basis. This involves
manual work utilising paper, as well as computer based data entry systems. There is also an
occasional requirement to use computer software to create reports (e.g. after a MESA or TESE
sperm collection).
24. To check & maintain laboratory stock control regularly as directed by the Senior or Consultant
embryologist
25. After a suitable period of training, to be responsible for the safe use of equipment (e.g.
centrifuges, flowhoods, incubators, microscopes), which also may be expensive and/or complex
(ICSI workstations).
26. Regular responsibility for keeping accurate records of gametes / embryos in storage and for
patients undergoing treatment.
7a. EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
Able to operate / use/ very occasionally provide training on the following:

Dissecting, inverted & phase contrast microscopes for gamete and embryo observation

Laminar flowhoods & class II safety hoods for the IVF procedures

Incubators for temporary culture of gametes / embryos

Centrifuges for sperm preparation

Cryofridges/storage dewars for the storage of gametes / embryos

Alarm systems for incubators & cryofridges

Video camera and computer systems for teaching & embryo morphology assessment

Warmed stages or surfaces for culture manipulations of gametes / embryos

Heating blocks for test tubes

Pipette eppendorf & eppendorf tips

Refrigerator / freezer for storing culture media / consumables

Computers for inputting of data

Warm stages for embryo manipulations

Tissue culture plastics / culture dishes for collecting & culturing embryos

Tissue culture media for providing a means of embryo development

Paraffin oil for use in tissue culture systems

Different types of glass and plastic pipettes for handling / transferring gametes or embryos
(Pasteur pipettes, denuding pipettes, micropipettes for ICSI) & graduated pipettes for aliquoting
solutions

Embryo transfer catheters for loading embryos before the embryo transfer

Test tubes for collecting follicular fluids and for centrifuging samples, & test tube racks

Whirlimixers

Counting chambers (Makler and Neubauer) and slides/coveslips for performing sperm analysis

Syringes & needles

Spirit burners for sterilisation or flaming of pipettes

Rubbish bags for disposal of clinical waste

Tissues & 70% ethanol for cleaning spillages

Sterile gloves, appropriate lab ware, face masks & nurses cap
7b. SYSTEMS

Embryology laboratory database (Excel).

Cryofridge and incubator emergency alarm system.

Incubator temperature and CO2 level monitoring system – quality control system.

DATIX intranet – incident reporting.

Internet and intranet – literature searching, product searching.

Email – internal and external communication.

Word processing, excel, filemaker – report writing, data analysis, information storage.
8. ASSIGNMENT AND REVIEW OF WORK
1. Structured personal development review with Consultant embryologist to review performance
against agreed objectives, and set new objectives.
2. Clinical Scientists (embryology) are guided by standard operating procedures and good
laboratory practise
3. Clinical Scientists (embryology) perform a defined range of scientific duties according to a clinical
rota and under the general supervision of the Senior or Consultant embryologist. However, they
may work autonomously for very long periods of time.
4. Organisation and prioritisation of own workload within the constraints of the work rota.
5. Sources of work - planned patient treatment cycles; planned pre-treatment investigations; selfgenerated e.g. research; line manager; departmental head
6. Clinical Scientists (embryology) have an active role, in laboratory meetings, specialist groups
(H&S, Scientific meetings etc.) where planning will be discussed.
7. Clinical Scientists (embryology) must undertake continuous professional development at a level
consistent with the grade of an experienced Clinical Scientist.
8. Clinical Scientists (embryology) have joint responsibility with their supervisor for their Personal
Development plan
9. DECISIONS AND JUDGEMENTS
Under the supervision of the Consultant Clinical Scientist, the post holder will be expected to make the
complex decisions and judgements necessary to provide a high quality service and optimise patient
treatment cycles
1. Follows standard operating protocols, suggesting updates to more senior Clinical Scientists
2. Follows all relevant directorate policies and procedures
3. Operates autonomously within the ACP, referring difficult or complex problems to the Senior or
Consultant embryologist
4. Is competent in interpreting complex diagnostic data in a variety of formats and making valid
judgements on the basis of data
5. Is competent in interpreting a wide range of clinical data and making judgements about patient
treatment on the basis of test results and observations. This may include the following decisions
and judgements:
 Selecting the most appropriate treatment option based on semen quality, patient records
and previous treatment records
 Change of treatment options due to unexpected semen quality
 Optimal usage of oocytes/sperm for ICSI
 Selection of the most suitable embryos for uterine transfer and cryopreservation
 Deciding the most appropriate day for uterine transfer
6. Deals with technical enquiries from Trainee Clinical Scientists
7. Deals with emergency call-outs for the laboratory alarm system
10. MOST CHALLENGING/DIFFICULT PARTS OF THE JOB
1. Working in a demand led environment
2. Meeting tight timescales and deadlines eg prioritisation of urgent requests, managing diverse
tasks, organising time to ensure completion of tasks in required timescale (eg in the embryology
laboratory, tasks must be completed according to a very strict timeline and often under
considerable pressure)
3. Accommodating unexpected procedures at short notice and maintaining quality of service.
4. Performing consistently, tasks which require a high level of expertise and require the very
highest degree of skill, dexterity and concentration
5. Achieving satisfactory clinical outcomes from very difficult cases e.g. ICSI cases with very small
numbers of mature oocytes and/or poor oocyte quality, and very poor sperm.
1. Frequent patient contact where either clinical treatment has been unsuccessful or there is a
requirement to impart difficult and sensitive information, which may have long term
implications (eg when the male patient has no sperm in his ejaculate)
11. COMMUNICATIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS
Internal
 With other members of the embryology team regarding the day to day function of the laboratory.
 With other members of the multidisciplinary team regarding interpretation of results, outcomes of
laboratory procedures, planning of patient treatments.
 With patients e.g. prior to oocyte recovery, embryo transfer, and semen collection, prior to the
transfer of sperm or embryos to or from another HFEA licensed centre, and following semen

analyses and embryo thawing.
Occasionally, with other departments e.g. pharmacy (ordering gas cylinders), microbiology
(patient results) and security (alarm monitoring).
External



Occasionally, with suppliers regarding equipment repairs.
Occasionally, under the direction of the Consultant/Senior Embryologist, with Embryologists at
other licensed centres regarding the transport of sperm and embryos.
Occasionally, with Embryologists from other UK and overseas IVF centres at local and
national/international meetings.
12. PHYSICAL, MENTAL, EMOTIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS OF THE JOB
Physical Skills
1. This post requires the highest degree of physical skill, where precision and speed and the highest
levels of hand to eye and sensory co-ordination are essential
2. Effective aseptic technique required for all procedures involving gametes and embryos
3. Rapid and accurate operation of keyboards
4. Use of highly specialised equipment requiring very fine adjustment e.g. small sample injection
and oocyte manipulation during ICSI
Reasonable level of physical fitness
Physical Demands
1. Sitting for very long periods of time at microscopes and computers.
2. Frequent movement between microscopes and incubators.
3. Some manual handling may be required eg movement of heavy equipment such as microscopes,
ovens, boxes of consumables, gas cylinders.
4. Working with highly controlled, fine movements at all times when handling gametes and embryos.
5. Sole working out of hours (evenings and week-ends) for long periods of time.
6. Occasional manual handling of heavy liquid nitrogen transport tanks and embryo storage dewars
for filling with liquid nitrogen. This requires moderate physical effort for several periods during any
one shift.
Mental Demands
1. Frequent periods of prolonged and intense concentration during embryo manipulations.
2. Meticulous attention to detail is required in all aspects of the handling of gametes and embryos at
all times, and during HFEA required mandatory witnessing of procedures carried out by others.
3. The job requires multitasking and prioritisation of workload. There are frequent interruptions from
technical enquiries
4. Working at all times in adherence to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority Code of
Practice.
5. Regular requirement to make decisions which may affect the outcome of patient treatment cycles.
6. Involved in maintaining a service in the presence of possible adverse events including equipment
failure
7. Dealing with laboratory alarm emergency call-outs.
Emotional Demands
1. There is a frequent requirement to deal with patients under conditions when the patient is
distressed e.g. failed embryo thaw, poor fertilisation/embryo quality
2. Allowing embryos to perish (after expiry of consented storage period, at patients’ request,
embryos unsuitable for cryopreservation)
3. Continual pressure to ensure clinical specimens are examined correctly and timeously, knowing
that inaccurate or delayed results could result in inappropriate treatment of patients and /or
adverse incidents.
Environmental Demands
1. Frequent exposure to potentially infectious biological body fluids and aerosols – (exposure prone
post – Hepatitis B immunity required).
2. Frequent manual manipulation of highly unpleasant specimens
3. Controlled risk of exposure or spilling of liquid nitrogen, which is potentially fatal
(burns/asphyxiation hazard).
4. Risk of explosion of plastic straws/glass ampoules after removal from liquid nitrogen.
5. Risk of injury from syringe needles and glass pipettes.
6. Risk of injury from spirit burners.
7. Controlled risk of exposure to or spillage of reagents, chemicals and solvents some of which are
potentially hazardous
8. Sustained exposure to subdued artificial lighting conditions.
13. KNOWLEDGE, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO DO THE JOB
Training
1. A first or second class honours degree in a life science, which is acceptable for Health
Professionals Council Registration
2. Certificate in Clinical embryology from the Association of Clinical Embryologists or equivalent
3. Post graduate qualification preferred (M.Sc. in relevant area)
4. Three or more years experience working in an Assisted Conception environment.
5. HFEA recognised ICSI practitioner
6. Eligible for or working towards State registration as a Clinical Scientist (Embryology)
Knowledge/experience
1. Formal evidence of specialist knowledge of a range of discipline specific procedures eg
Andrology, Embryology, Cryopreservation and Intra-Cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
2. Practical experience of a range of discipline specific procedures as outlined above
3. Thorough knowledge of theory and principles underpinning each area of clinical practise outlined
above, within the specialism of Assisted Reproduction
4. Must maintain this specialist knowledge and expertise across a range of work procedures and
practices and this must be underpinned by theoretical knowledge of relevant practical experience.
5. Specialist knowledge of the relevant legislation covering clinical embryology and andrology
practise: HFE Act (1990), HFEA* code of practice, HFEA Standards.
6. Excellent computer skills required, including good working knowledge of Microsoft office
7. Evidence of continuing professional development, for example, a specialist portfolio of
development, attendance at specialist courses, training in new techniques and learning through
reflective practice
8. Excellent communication /interpersonal/organisational/team working skills
*HFEA: Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, the regulatory body which covers Assisted
Conception Practise within the UK.
14. JOB DESCRIPTION AGREEMENT
A separate job description will need to be signed off by each jobholder to whom
the job description applies.
Job Holder’s Signature:
Date:
Head of Department Signature:
Date:
NHS LOTHIAN - OUR VALUES
NHS Lothian is determined to improve the way their staff works so they have developed a set of common
values and ways of working which they now need to turn into everyday reality - to the benefit of everyone
working in the organisation and, most importantly, to the benefit of their patients.
NHS Lothian – Our Values into Action:
Care and Compassion
• We will demonstrate our compassion and caring through our actions and words
• We will take time to ensure each person feels listened to, secure, understood and is treated
compassionately
• We will be visible, approachable and contribute to creating a calm and friendly atmosphere
• We will provide a safe and caring setting for patients and staff, and an efficient, effective and
seamless care experience
• We will meet people’s needs for information and involvement
in all care, treatment and support decisions.
Dignity and Respect
• We will be polite and courteous in our communications and actions
• We will demonstrate respect for dignity, choice, privacy and confidentiality
• We will recognise and value uniqueness and diversity
• We will be sincere, honest and constructive in giving, and open to receiving, feedback
• We will maintain a professional attitude and appearance.
Quality
• We will demonstrate a commitment to doing our best
• We will encourage and explore ideas for improvement
and innovation
• We will seek out opportunities to enhance our skills
and expertise
• We will work together to achieve high quality services
• We will use our knowledge and enthusiasm to implement positive change and overcome challenges.
Teamwork
• We will understand and value each other’s role and contribution
• We will be fair, thoughtful, welcoming and kind to colleagues
• We will offer support, advice and encouragement to others
• We will maximise each other’s potential and contribution through shared learning and development
• We will recognise, share and celebrate our successes, big and small.
Openness, Honesty and Responsibility
• We will build trust by displaying transparency and doing what we say we will do
• We will commit to doing what is right – even when challenged
• We will welcome feedback as a means of informing improvements
• We will use our resources and each other’s time efficiently and wisely
• We will maintain and enhance public confidence in our service
• We will be a positive role model.
Throughout the recruitment process candidates will need to demonstrate they meet all of Our Values.
NHS SCOTLAND APPLICATION PROCESS
The purpose of an application form is to help evidence that the applicant has all the requirements applicable
to carry out the job applied for.
Once in receipt of the application pack it is essential to read both the job description and person specification
to gain a full understanding of what the job entails and the minimum criteria required.
Please note for equal opportunity purposes NHS Lothian do not accept CV’s as a form of application.
General guidance
There are currently three ways of applying for vacancies within NHS Lothian:
- On-Line: www.jobs.scot.nhs.uk
- Telephone (hard copy): 0131 536 3030
- Email: recruitment@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
If you are applying by ‘hard copy’ please use black ink and write clearly in block capitals.

The vacancy reference number, job title and location can be obtained from the job advert.

The candidate number will be populated by recruitment team once the application has been returned.
This is to ensure each application remains anonymous.

Only part C of the application form will be sent for short listing. The application form will be identified by
the candidate number only to ensure that no applicant will be unfairly discriminated against.

Please complete all sections of the application form. Those sections that are not relevant please indicate
‘not applicable’, do not leave blank.

Please feel free to use additional paper if required. Please do not add your name to any additional
information provided; secure it to the relevant section and Recruitment Admin will add a candidate
number.
For general help and advice on how to complete an application form visit:
www.myworldofwork.co.uk/content/job-application-form-advice
Please return completed application forms to:
The Recruitment Centre, Staff Residencies, St John’s Hospital, Howden Road West, Livingston, EH54 6PP
When returning your completed application and any associated enclosures by Royal Mail, please ensure that
the correct postage is paid. Underpaid mail will be retained by the Post Office which will result in applications
not being returned until after the closing date and not being included for shortlisting.
WORKFORCE EQUALITY MONITORING
NHS Lothian is committed to supporting and promoting dignity at work by creating an inclusive working
environment. We believe that all staff should be able to fulfil their potential in a workplace free from
discrimination and harassment where diverse skills, perspectives and backgrounds are valued.
In order to measure and monitor our performance as an equal opportunities employer, it is important that we
collect, store and analyse data about staff. Personal, confidential information will be collected and used to
help us to understand the make-up of our workforce which will enable us to make comparisons locally,
regionally and nationally.
NHS LOTHIAN
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY STATEMENT
NHS Lothian considers that it has an important role to play as a major employer and provider of services in
Lothian and accepts its obligations both legal and moral by stating commitment to the promotion of equal
opportunities and elimination of discrimination.
The objectives of its policy are that no person or employee receives less favourable treatment on the
grounds of sex, disability, marital status, age, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin),
creed, sexuality, responsibility for dependants, political party or trade union membership or activity, HIV/AIDS
status or is disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.
Our Equal Opportunities in Employment policy can be viewed at:
www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/WorkingWithUs/Employment/Pages/EqualOpportunities.aspx