Visa Note for International Applicants
While this employer offers a certificate of sponsorship for eligible candidates, all international applicants must verify their specific visa eligibility and requirements directly with the employer before applying. The certificate of sponsorship does not guarantee visa approval, and candidates should familiarize themselves with the UK’s skilled worker visa requirements and application process.
About the Role
We are seeking a substantive resident on call Consultant Paediatrician with a special interest in General Paediatrics and Neonatology to join our team at Worthing Hospital with an earliest start date of March 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced paediatrician to make a significant impact in providing high-quality care to neonates, children, and young people in the Worthing area.
Company Information
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (279) is a leading healthcare provider dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is valued, and all staff feel supported to reach their full potential. As a university trust and leader in healthcare research, we prioritize learning, teaching, and continuous professional development.
Location Details
This position is based at Worthing Hospital in West Sussex, BN11 2DH. The hospital serves a diverse population and provides a comprehensive range of services. Worthing offers a desirable quality of life with excellent transport links, beautiful coastal surroundings, and proximity to London and other major cities.
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a competitive salary ranging from £109,725 to £145,478 per annum, inclusive of London weighting if applicable. The position is full-time (10 PAs) on a permanent contract. Benefits include access to the NHS Pension Scheme, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development.
Working Pattern
The role is full-time, based on 10 programmed activities (PAs) per week, consisting of 9 Direct Clinical Care (DCC) PAs and 1 Supporting Professional Activities (SPA) PA. The working week during non-attending weeks is Wednesday to Friday, with daytime work delivered during these periods.
Essential Qualifications
Applicants must hold a basic medical degree and be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) with a license to practice. You must have MRCPCH or an equivalent specialist qualification and be within six months of obtaining or already hold a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in Paediatrics if trained in the UK. For international candidates, GMC confirmation of equivalent qualifications is required.
Essential Experience
Candidates must demonstrate relevant post-registration experience in paediatrics and possess appropriate acute general paediatric skills. Experience in neonatal care at level 1 is essential, as well as Child Safeguarding Level 3 certification. You should have a thorough understanding of clinical risk management and hold current certifications in Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) and Neonatal Life Support (NLS) or equivalent.
Desirable Qualifications
While not essential, a higher degree such as an MSc would be advantageous. Experience in related specialties beyond general paediatrics and neonatology would also be beneficial. A recognized teaching qualification is desirable for candidates interested in educational aspects of the role.
Job Responsibilities
The consultant will undertake twice weekly outpatient general paediatric clinics and participate in the Consultant of the week rota (1:10 weeks), attending Monday to Friday. During these weeks, you will manage acute general paediatric and level 1 neonatal wards, utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach. The role includes responding to neonatal and paediatric emergency calls, leading ward rounds, and providing supervision and support to junior colleagues.
Clinical Duties
Key responsibilities include managing new patients admitted to wards or treated on the Children and Young Person Day Unit (CYPDU), developing follow-up plans and clinics, and providing leadership during emergency situations. The post includes non-resident on-call duties (1:16 weekdays, 1:10 weekends) and 26 tier 2 resident night shifts per year on Monday/Tuesday nights.
Working Schedule
During standard working weeks (when not attending), you will work Wednesday to Friday, delivering two general outpatient clinic sessions, two CYPDU clinical sessions, one SPA, and one administrative session. The role offers a balanced mix of clinical work, teaching, and administrative responsibilities.
About the Employer
At University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, diversity is our strength. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We offer comprehensive support networks and a buddy system to help new team members settle in effectively.
Professional Development
We value continuous learning and provide extensive opportunities for professional growth. As a university trust, we have strong links with academic institutions and offer support for research activities, publications, and further specialization. Our comprehensive wellbeing programme includes flexible working options to support work-life balance.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and follow the application process. International applicants should include detailed information about their qualifications, GMC registration status (or application process), and any relevant experience working in healthcare systems outside the UK.
International Applicant Checklist
- Verify your eligibility for a UK Skilled Worker visa with the employer
- Prepare documentation of your medical qualifications and GMC registration
- Obtain certification of English language proficiency if required
- Gather evidence of relevant clinical experience and skills
- Contact Dr Julia Fozard at [email protected] with any preliminary questions
- Prepare a comprehensive CV and cover letter addressing the person specification criteria
Contact Information
For questions about this role, please contact Dr Julia Fozard, Site Lead at Worthing Hospital, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 01903 205111. Dr Fozard can provide additional information about the department, team dynamics, and the application process.
Certificate of Sponsorship
This employer is able to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible international candidates who meet the visa requirements. Applicants requiring sponsorship should clearly indicate this in their application. From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants must present criminal record certificates from any country where they have resided for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
Additional Information
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, requiring a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Applicants must have current UK professional registration or be in the process of obtaining it. The Trust is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of background.
Why Join Us
Joining our team offers the opportunity to work in a supportive environment where your skills and expertise will be valued. You will be part of a motivated multidisciplinary team including consultants, junior doctors, nurses, midwives, physiotherapists, and dieticians. We offer competitive terms and conditions, a commitment to work-life balance, and the satisfaction of making a real difference to patients’ lives.
Career Progression
We are committed to supporting the career development of our staff. This role offers opportunities to develop management and leadership skills, participate in teaching and training, and engage in research activities. We encourage professional growth and can support further specialization or advancement within the organization.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 11 November 2025. Interviews are tentatively planned to take place on 15 December 2025, and applicants will be informed of any changes to this schedule. Early application is encouraged to allow sufficient time for processing and potential queries.
Next Steps
We encourage all interested candidates to make contact and arrange a visit to see the department, meet our team, and ask any questions you may have. This will help you fully understand the role and determine if it aligns with your career goals and aspirations. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to our team.
