Health Visiting Watch

Hi, I've been qualified as a staff nurse for a year now, my preceptership is almost over. Does anybody know how I can become a health visitor? The whole process looks difficult.Thanks

From what I’ve seen, it’s through seconded posts as a student health visitor. I’ve seen posts advertised on NHS jobs in the past.

apply through your local NHS Health board for any vacancies, plus any local council social services departments. so requirements etc details below


( Entry requirements (health visitor) In order to train as a health visitor, you must first qualify and register as a nurse or midwife. In practice, employers will also require you to have undertaken an approved programme in Specialist Community Public Health Nursing - Health Visiting (SCPHN - HV). )

( Health visitor. Health visitors are nurses or midwives who are passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing illness. They work with families to give pre-school-age children the best possible start in life. )

( What does a health visitor do?
Health visitors travel to people’s homes, especially new mothers and children, to provide information, practical care, and support to help clients cope with any difficulties they are experiencing. The role may involve working with a broad section of people in the community, and duties might often include:

advising older people on health related issues
giving advice to new mothers about their baby – for example hygiene, safety, feeding and sleeping
counselling people on issues such as post-natal depression or bereavement
coordinating child immunisation programmes
organising special clinics or drop-in centres
Health visitors work closely with other agencies, such as social services and local housing departments. ))

You'd need a health visitor trainee post. These are a bit few and far between generally so it might be a case of waiting for one to show up. Of course there's no harm in getting in touch with local services to see if they have any upcoming trainee posts. They do tend to be fairly competitive, so it's important you are aware of the necessary transferrable skills, and if possible, get a few days shadowing a health visitor. It's also worth looking at doing some volunteering in relevant areas if you have the time.