Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technologist

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Great Western Hospital Mortuary and Bereavement Service for Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technician (APT).

The successful candidates will join a small, multi-skilled team and undertake a structured training programme to develop the knowledge, skills and competencies required to become a qualified APT. Working under the supervision of trained and experienced APT staff, the post holder will support the delivery of a safe, secure, effective and compassionate mortuary and bereavement service.

The post holder will assist in ensuring that deceased patients and their families are treated with dignity, respect and sensitivity at all times, in accordance with Human Tissue Authority (HTA) standards, Trust policies and relevant legislation.

Main duties of the job

Support the Mortuary and Bereavement Service in delivering a professional and compassionate service to bereaved families, hospital staff and external agencies. Assist with the admission, identification, dignity and respect, storage and release of deceased patients under supervision. Facilitate the legal documentation, infection status declarations, and other statutory paperwork associated with death certification. Provide support and guidance to bereaved families regarding procedures following a death in hospital or the community. Liaise with clinical teams, the Medical Examiner Service, Coroner's Officers and Funeral Directors as required. Arrange, prepare, and assist with viewings and formal identifications, ensuring that privacy, dignity, and respect are maintained at all times. Assist trained APTs with post-mortem examinations and other mortuary procedures as part of the training programme. Maintain accurate records and documentation in line with Trust and HTA requirements. Participate in training, competency assessments and continuing professional development to achieve APT qualification.

About us

We are proud to be part of BSW Hospitals Group - a formal partnership between Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust and Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust. With a combined workforce of over 17, 600 colleagues, and budget of 1.6 billion the Group is united by a common purpose to deliver the best possible care to over 1 million people.

We are creating a health and care system that works with the people we care for, reducing the differences people currently face in access, experience and outcomes, improving the experience of our colleagues and tackling shared challenges like sustainability and finances. Every improvement we make across our Group will be guided by what creates the greatest benefit for our colleagues, our patients, our communities and our partners.