Dietetic assistant
| Posting date: | 13 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £24,937.00 to £26,598.00 per year |
| Additional salary information: | £24937.00 - £26598.00 a year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 06 March 2026 |
| Location: | Exeter, EX2 5AF |
| Company: | NHS Jobs |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | C9369-26-0107 |
Summary
Job Purpose To assist the dietetic team and ward staff in the delivery of care and treatment to people using services. With an emphasis on ensuring that their nutritional needs are met in order to assist their recovery. Be responsible for undertaking practical procedures under the supervision of trained nursing staff and dietetic team. To provide users of The Haldon Eating Disorder Service and their families with support and time to meet their physical and psychological needs especially in relation to their dietary needs and requirements. Duties and Responsibilities Communication & Working Relationships To communicate effectively with people using services taking into account any communication difficulties they may have and responding appropriately. To form and maintain therapeutic relationships with individuals and other professionals and agencies. To maintain accurate and complete records consistent with legislation, policies and procedures. To communicate in a professional manner that is consistent with relevant legislation, policies and procedures. Taking, recording and reporting telephone messages. Providing and receiving routine information to assist in undertaking the role. Participate in ward / team meetings and discussions. To promote better Mental Health by acting as a suitable role model. Planning and Organisation To ensure that the ward has the menu/food items items available to ensure that the nutritional needs of each individual are met. To assist individuals in making the appropriate food choices to promote their recovery. To support the wider team in supporting individuals in the dining room and assist with the serving of meals when necessary. To ensure that stock levels are maintained for items such as nasogastric feeding equipment and supplements. In order to provide comprehensive and quality services to individuals, the post holder will if necessary be required to work in other areas of the service as directed by the Line Manager / Nurse-in-Charge. Responsibility for Judgement and Analysis The post holder will be aware of and work within their own limits, and competencies. Take part in the constant assessment of risk and management of risk in conjunction with the qualified staff. Take part and be aware of Health and Safety matters as appropriate. Be punctual for work and conduct themselves in a professional manner in accordance with Trust Policies. Responsibility for Patient/Client care, Treatment and Therapy To be fully aware of each individuals menu plan and support patient engagement in these. Participation in the delivery of therapeutic interventions, assisting / facilitating in the running of group and individual 1-1 activities, offering time in positive activity and engagement with a particular emphasis on food and nutrition aspects of the programme. Participate in procedures involving intensive engagement and care of individuals who are distressed and / or verbally or physically aggressive. To provide support with daily living skills. Participate in physical intervention and physical and / or mental health emergencies if required. Be able to recognise signs of abuse and know procedures they need to follow to escalate their concerns. Provide regular and practical support to individuals and their carers. To maintain the dignity and wellbeing of individuals and their carers at all times. Assisting in the monitoring of patient nutritional needs. Participating in ward / team Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings and discussions as appropriate. Keep accurate records of interventions and care provided as identified in patient care plans as directed by the Nurse-in-Charge or dietitian and ensure all entries are validated on the electronic records system. Promptly report any difficulties encountered whilst implementing agreed care plans to the Nurse-in-Charge or dietitian, and be able to report both verbally and in written form against progress of care plans. Policy, Service, Research, Innovation & Improvement Complete all core training requirements and other appropriate training courses, to maintain individual professional development. To comply with all DPT policies, protocols, procedures relevant to the role. Report any observed incidence of unprofessional behaviour, accidents/incidents, untoward occurrences or faulty equipment to the Nurse-in-charge or Line Manager. To participate professionally in service development and proposed service changes. To take part in any audit processes as required. Comply with universal Infection Control precautions and procedures. Responsibility for Finance, Equipment & Other Resources Assist in maintaining safety and security of the environment. Helping to maintain cleanliness and tidiness of the environment (including equipment). To ensure stock rotation of food items and compliance with food safety regulations. To have knowledge and understanding of counter fraud. To ensure Trust policies and legislation are followed regarding patient's property and monies. To ensure accurate documentation and record keeping. To participate in the monitoring, ordering and receipts of stock and non-stock supplies of the ward. Responsibility for Supervision, Leadership & Management To actively participate in regular supervision and an annual staff appraisal which includes service objectives and individual learning and development needs in accordance with Trust policy. To participate in and support students learning along with other members of the team. Information Resources & Administrative Duties To effectively use the Trust's IT systems (Carenotes), off duty (E-roster), learning and development (E-learning), online and any other IT systems either current or in the future as commensurate with the role. Maintaining confidentiality of information being aware of Trust policies and local protocols and keeping up-to-date with changes. Freedom Act Works within the standard operational procedures of the team. Uses own initiative in delivering patient care whilst receiving supervision from the team. Any other specific tasks To contribute to the provision of a safe therapeutic environment for individuals, staff and visitors to the unit. To take on responsibility for duties assigned by Line Manager. To report any complains or mishaps to patients, staff or visitors immediately to Nurse in Charge or dietitian To attend any further training appropriate to the role. The post holder should ensure their fitness to undertake the post, they should be able to demonstrate they are able to undertake the level of general training and personal safety training appropriate to their role and work area, and keep this training up-to-date. If the ability to perform Physical Intervention Techniques or Prevention of Violence, Management is a requirement of the role, the post holder must declare physical fitness to undertake such a role. The post holder should act quickly to protect the safety of individuals if they have reason to believe that they or a colleague may not be fit to undertake the duties within their job role. Act within competency.