Download Scientific / Technical - NHS Scotland Recruitment

REFERENCE NUMBER: MEDP/15/12
JOB TITLE: Principal Medical Physicist
GRADE: Band 8A
LOCATION: MR Imaging, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
CONTRACT DURATION: Permanent
HOURS: 37.5
CLOSING DATE: Monday 1st February 2016
SALARY SCALE: £40,028 - £48,034 per annum
Apply on-line www.jobs.scot.nhs.uk
Due to the increasing volume of winter recruitment activity, we are sorry to inform you that if you are
successful at interview, your provisional offer may not be issued for up to two weeks after you
receive your verbal offer.
**Please note – the e-mail address you provide on the application form will be used to
communicate any further correspondence relating to this vacancy so please check your
TRASH and SPAM folders**
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:
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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 LOTHIANS
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 Lothians
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
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NHS Lothian
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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.
NHS Lothian
Medical Physics Department
Vacancy Ref MEDP/15/12
We are looking to appoint an experienced MR Physicist within the Imaging Physics Section of the
Department of Medical Physics, NHS Lothian.
The post is established at AfC Band 8a, but candidates without the necessary experience may be
considered for appointment at Band 7.
You will join a team of physicists and technologists providing scientific and technical support to
diagnostic imaging services throughout the region. There are a number of exciting MRI developments
underway within NHS Lothian, including planned installation of an intraoperative MRI suite,
procurement of a 3 Tesla clinical neuroimaging system and replacement of our paediatric MRI.
You will have a key role in commissioning these systems and will contribute to all aspects of scientific
support to the clinical MRI service, including acting as MR Safety Expert. Further areas of ongoing
service development include MRI breast screening and the use of MRI in radiotherapy planning. There
will be opportunity within the post to assist with, and lead, development projects benefitting the clinical
service.
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to:
Dr Nick Weir
E-mail
- [email protected]
Telephone
- 0131 242 2355
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DEPARTMENT of MEDICAL PHYSICS
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Job Title: Principal Medical Physicist (MRI)
Date: 29th December 2015
Key Criteria
Essential
Qualifications:
Work or Other
Experience:
Special Skills &
Knowledge:
Key Personal
Attributes:
Physical
Requirements
1. Honours degree (1st or 2nd class) in
Physical Science or equivalent.
2. MSc in Medical Physics.
3. HCPC registration as Clinical
Scientist, or eligible for registration
1. Substantial experience working in
clinical Magnetic Resonance
Imaging, to the level of MR Safety
Expert
2. Experience of presenting at
scientific / clinical meetings.
1. Expert knowledge of UK MR safety
guidelines and international
recommendations on exposure to
static and time-varying E-M fields.
2. In depth knowledge of MRI
physics, equipment and its clinical
use.
3. Ability to apply scientific knowledge
and methodology to analyse
problems and evaluate solutions.
4. IT knowledge including databases
and spreadsheets
1. Good overall disposition and
maturity.
2. Ability to build effective working
relationships with other staff groups
3. Works well as part of a team
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
5. Smart appearance, suitable for
work in clinical areas.
6. Ability to work on own initiative and
prioritise own work
1. Post involves frequent lifting and
handling equipment up to 15 kg.
2. Good manual dexterity
3. Able to travel around the region
Desirable
1. PhD or equivalent research
experience
2. Driving licence, valid in UK
1. Experience of MR breast imaging/
cardiac MR / MRI in radiotherapy
planning/ intraoperative MRI
2. Experience of the specification,
planning and commissioning of
new MRI facilities.
3. Experience of teaching at
postgraduate level.
4. Track record of published
research
5. Proven record of contributing to
service development and initiating
research projects
1. Image processing computing skills
2. Knowledge of quality management
systems
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JOB DESCRIPTION
1. JOB IDENTIFICATION
Job Title:
Principal Medical Physicist
Responsible to:
Head of Imaging Physics Section
Department(s):
Medical Physics
Directorate:
Diagnostics Directorate
Operating Division:
LUHD
No of Job Holders:
3
Last Update:
12th May 2014
2. JOB PURPOSE
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The post holder works at the level of Medical Physics expert in at least one area of medical
imaging to provide highly specialist clinical technical services across NHS Lothian.
3. DIMENSIONS
3.1
Medical imaging plays a vital role in patient diagnosis and treatment pathways. It is essential that
imaging equipment procured is fit for purpose and its ongoing performance and use optimised
through quality assurance programmes and scientific support. In NHS Lothian, imaging equipment
ranges from fixed and mobile radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment, ultrasound scanners,
nuclear medicine imaging, to multidetector row CT scanners, MRI scanners and interventional
neuroangiography suites with overall capital value ~£40M. Patient imaging ranges from simple Xray radiographs to highly complex MR sequences. Overall patient throughput is approximately half
a million patients/yr in NHS Lothian alone.
The post holder has a Lothian wide role, extending as required to other healthcare providers
holding service level agreements with Medical Physics. This post provides scientific and technical
support at the level of Medical Physics expert.
Images are reviewed subjectively by radiologists when reporting clinical status. There is an
increasing need for quantitative image analysis, for example to plan and monitor response to
treatment, and to enable statistical analysis in research projects.
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4. ORGANISATIONAL POSITION
See attached organisation chart at Appendix 1.
5. ROLE OF DEPARTMENT
The role of the Medical Physics Department is to facilitate the introduction of new clinical technology
and scientific methods into healthcare and to ensure their safe and effective use. The Department
provides a range of specialised clinical and clinical technical services and provides highly specialised
expertise to NHS Lothian, and to other organisations with which it has contractual arrangements. Staff
have a variety of scientific and technical expertise, including physics, electronic & mechanical
engineering and computer science. The Department is organised into five Sections that specialise in
different areas of physics and engineering applied to medicine: Nuclear Medicine Physics; Imaging
Physics; Radiation Protection; Medical Equipment Management; Clinical Engineering & Non-Ionising
Radiations.
The Imaging Physics Section provides scientific advice and technical support to Radiology
departments and other users of diagnostic X-ray and MR imaging equipment. Its principal roles include:
 Managing the medical physics imaging equipment QA programme and providing technical
support to the Radiographer QA programme, ensuring compliance with the IRR99 regulations in
relation to equipment quality assurance.
 Providing Medical Physics Expert services for diagnostic radiology in compliance with the
requirements of IRMER in respect of dose/image quality optimisation, research dose constraints
and introduction of new imaging techniques.
 Providing technical advice on imaging equipment procurement, to ensure new equipment
purchased is fit-for-purpose and value for money
 Providing MR Safety Advisor services to NHS Lothian and SLA holders
 Providing scientific support to the clinical MRI service
 Providing CT physics support to the Clinical Research Imaging Centre
 Providing training and teaching in imaging physics to a range of staff groups including
Radiologists, Radiographers, Surgeons and Physicists
 Carrying out research and development within the field of imaging physics.
6. KEY RESULT AREAS
Clinical and scientific
 The postholder provides highly specialist clinical technical services across NHS Lothian.
 The post holder is expected to have specialist medical knowledge, to collaborate with radiologists
and clinicians in research projects, and to implement new techniques in clinical practice. [e.g.
work with radiologists to carry out effectively optimisation projects, taking into account clinical
requirements in terms of image quality]
 Analysis and interpretation of quantitative clinical measurements. [e.g. perfusion imaging]
 Implement developments which improve existing patient procedures [e.g. optimisation of imaging
protocols to reduce patient exposure/ radiation dose without degradation of clinical image quality]
 Acting at the level of Medical Physics expert for the specialist area of imaging [e.g. working with
clinical teams to ensure the safe, effective introduction of new imaging techniques, dose and
image quality optimisation investigations, completing exposure/dose and risk assessments for
IRAS research applications]
 Developing techniques for accurate and repeatable measurements on imaging equipment [e.g.
measurement of X-ray beam characteristics for quality assurance programmes, phantom
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calibrations for clinical trials, or monitoring response to treatment/progression of disease]
Calibration of imaging equipment to allow correction for imaging performance
Critically review and evaluate results of imaging equipment performance measurements [e.g. for
equipment evaluation, quality assurance programmes]
The postholder will regularly use a range of computing and information resources specific to
medical imaging in the hospital or research settings, and may be required to act as an
administrator on this equipment in relation to specific projects.
[e.g. Archiving of imaging data related to clinical trials.]
Development of custom software and application of existing software for medical image
processing and visualization, and to assess progress of disease or response to treatment
Teaching and training
 Supervise junior staff and trainees when required [e.g. post-graduate teaching to Specialist
Registrars in Radiology studying for Part 1 FRCR and trainee Medical Physicists working towards
HCPC Clinical Scientist Registration, Clinical Technologists.]
Research and Development:
 Research and development is a major part of the work of this post
 Analysis and management of images and data related to research projects
 Authors scientific journal papers and presents at national and international meetings and
conferences.
 Development of custom software, and application of existing software for medical image
processing and visualization
Professional:
 Maintain and continue to develop highly specialist knowledge in the field of imaging physics.
 Keep abreast of current techniques and developments by reading scientific papers and attending
relevant meetings.
 Engage with scientific staff in Edinburgh University, other academic institutions, other NHS Health
Boards, professional bodies, and national working groups as necessary, to ensure national
impact and contribution to wider scientific community.
7a. EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
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Responsible for operating highly complex and expensive imaging equipment [e.g. CT scanners,
MRI scanners and angiography suites], associated imaging workstations [e.g. research imaging
computers and associated backup facilities] and test equipment [e.g. ionisation chamber
dosimetry systems for X-ray beam measurements].
In relation to procurement, the postholder is responsible for the technical specification and
evaluation of imaging equipment tenders with capital values typically £10,000 - £1,000,000
Responsible for the specification and purchase of phantoms and test objects for imaging
equipment, typical capital values £2,000 - £5,000
7b. SYSTEMS
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Development of custom software using a range of computer languages and use of commercial
medical imaging analysis software [e.g. ImageJ/Java, Matlab, IDL]
Detailed knowledge of industry standard DICOM image transfer protocol and file specification
System management of imaging computers on both NHS and University networks associated
with research projects
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8. ASSIGNMENT AND REVIEW OF WORK
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Objectives are set in discussion with the Head of Section.
Work is managed and prioritised by the post holder. Activity is determined largely by clinical
service demand and legislative requirements. The progress of R&D projects are reviewed at
project meetings in collaboration with radiologists, clinicians and medical physics staff.
9. DECISIONS AND JUDGEMENTS
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Exercise initiative and judgement when implementing or assessing complex medical
imaging_techniques [e.g. those described in published papers.]
Interpret results from clinical imaging studies.
Diagnose highly complex problems with medical devices [e.g. major software installations,
imaging equipment]
Plans and implements complex projects (e.g. research projects) involving medical imaging.
10. MOST CHALLENGING / DIFFICULT PARTS OF THE JOB
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Developing techniques for accurate and repeatable measurements with imaging equipment [e.g.
Establishing quality control procedures, associated measurements and analysis]
Developing innovative techniques and algorithms to achieve project objectives in an acceptable
time scale. [e.g. determination of optimum imaging parameters or image analysis methods to
solve clinical imaging problems]
11. COMMUNICATIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS
Internal:
 Regular communication of complex information about medical imaging equipment and
techniques with radiologists, clinicians, and other medical physics staff.
 Communication with radiographers to specify image protocols to use before scanning
patients, and adjustment of protocol during patient scanning.
 Regular meetings with project teams in relation to R&D projects.
External:
 Regular communication of complex information about medical imaging equipment and
techniques with equipment manufacturers representatives.
 Regular liaison with IT/computing services to diagnose computer and network problems, and
solve storage issues [e.g. NHS IT, and scanner manufacturer engineers].
 Communication with experts inside and outside UK to obtain advice and collaborate [e.g. in
the field of research relevant for current projects.]
12. PHYSICAL, MENTAL, EMOTIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS OF THE JOB
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Necessary to concentrate for prolonged periods of time when developing software, or analysing
complex experimental results.
Continuous use of VDU equipment.
Precise and safe handling of tools and electronic components.
Out of hours work required for use of NHS equipment
General requirement to work in offices and imaging rooms without natural light.
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Involves setting up and calibrating complex equipment and using test equipment. e.g. able to set
up test objects reproducibly with mm accuracy
Requirement to transport equipment cases (5-15kg) from base to clients on other sites in
Lothian, travelling by car.
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Exposure to distressing situations is rare
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13. KNOWLEDGE, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO DO THE JOB
Qualifications
 Good (1st or 2nd class) Honours degree in a physical science or similar subject.
 MSc in Medical Physics
Registration
 Registered as Clinical Scientist (Medical Physicist) with HCPC
Clinical
 The post holder is expected to have specialist medical knowledge, enabling collaboration with
radiologists and clinicians, and to facilitate implementation of new techniques in clinical practice
Scientific / Technical
 Extensive post registration experience in the physics and engineering of at least one specialist
area of medical imaging.
 This post requires extensive knowledge of the physics of medical imaging [e.g. the physics of CT,
MRI and associated clinical imaging parameters, as well as advanced and emerging techniques]
 Expertise in computer languages [e.g. Java, C,C++ and/or higher level languages such as
IDL,Matlab]
 Experience in computer system administration [e.g. imaging computers associated with research
projects, and network interfacing to imaging equipment]
 Knowledge of computer security procedures, and the implications of the Data Protection Act for
research data.
 Understanding of hazards posed by, and precautions needed with: ionising radiation, magnetic
fields, electrical hazards.
14. JOB DESCRIPTION AGREEMENT
A separate job description will need to be signed off by each job holder to whom
the job description applies.
Job Holder’s Signature:
Date:
Head of Department Signature:
Date:
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APPENDIX 1: MEDICAL PHYSICS ORGANISATIONAL CHART
Head of Department
Medical Equipment
Management
Clinical Engineering &
Non-Ionising Radiation
Physics
Nuclear Medicine
Physics
Radiation
Protection
Imaging Physics
Admin
RIE/WGH
Consultant Medical Physicist
Principal
Physicist
Principal
Physicist
THIS POST
Registered
Physicist
(PT)
Registered
Physicist
(PT)
Specialist
Technologist
Pre-Reg
Physicist
Specialist
Technologist
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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.
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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: [email protected]
If you are applying by ‘hard copy’ please use black ink and write clearly in block capitals.
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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.
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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.

Feel free to use additional paper if required, but please note that this section has a size limit of 7,500
characters which is approximately 2 X A4 Sheets and text exceeding this limit may be truncated. 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
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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
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