Hey there,
First of all is your degree accredited by the IBMS? You can find out by checking the list of approved courses and Universities on their website at
http://ibms.org/If your degree isn't accredited you'll need to contact the IBMS and enquire about degree accreditation.
Second of all, as you have probably found in your research, to work in the UK using the protected title "Biomedical Scientist" you must be on the HCPC register. To apply to the HCPC to join the register you require an appropriate degree and a Certificate of Competence from the IBMS.
To gain your certificate of competence you need to carry out a full calendar year as a Trainee Biomedical Scientist in an approved NHS training laboratory (details can be obtained from the IBMS). During this training year you need to complete the IBMS Registration portfolio which covers the HCPC "Standards of Proficiency for Biomedical Scientist", and other HCPC standards: "Education and Training", "Conduct, Performance and Ethics" and "Continuing Professional Development". You can contact the IBMS for a copy of the registration portfolio.
The portfolio itself consists of three sections, each with subsections that cover the HCPC standards of proficiency. You have to provide a piece of evidence for each one to show you meet the requirements of the standard. It is ALOT of work, but it is definately worth it.
For a better idea of what the portfolio entails, check out:
http://www.preregportfolio.co.uk/Once you have heard from the IBMS about whether or not your degree is accredited you'll have two options: Your degree is accredited and you can find a training position, or your degree isn't accredited.
If your degree isn't accredited you'll have to pay the IBMS a fee (not sure off the top of my head - check the website) and they will analyse the modules you were taught and tell you what "Top-Up" modules you need to do in order to receive IBMS degree accreditation.
Once you have the appropriate modules you're good to go ahead and find a trainee position. Sometimes you'll get lucky and find a trainee position advertised on the NHS Jobs website (you can register for an account and set up Email alerts for related jobs), in other cases you may be better off seeking employment as a Medical Laboratory Assistant and waiting/expressing interest in taking up a training position. I really cant help here, you're better off trying to find someone who's been down that route and can provide advice.
Getting some voluntary work may also put you in a good position too!
Job prospects are good. Check the NHS jobs website for a better idea!
Best of luck! Feel free to PM me if you need any advice on the Registration Portfolio or HCPC registration in general!
The registration process must seem very complex but once you get your head around it, its not too bad!