Trainee Health Visitor – Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (SCPHN)

About the role

NHS Borders is offering a 12‑month fixed‑term training post for a Registered Nurse or Midwife to become a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (Health Visitor). The role provides a structured pathway to deliver the Universal Health Visiting Pathway for children aged 0‑5 and their families across the Scottish Borders.

Key responsibilities

• Undertake an approved postgraduate SCPHN (Health Visiting) programme in partnership with Queen Margaret University.
• Deliver universal, targeted and additional health‑visiting pathway visits.
• Assess child and family needs using the GIRFEC National Practice Model.
• Support health‑promotion and early‑intervention initiatives within local communities.
• Participate in safeguarding and child‑protection processes.
• Collaborate with experienced Health Visitors and multidisciplinary teams.
• Contribute to improving early‑years development, parenting support and school‑readiness outcomes.

Required profile

• Registered Nurse or Midwife (NMC registered).
• Demonstrable interest in public health, early years and family support.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to completing postgraduate academic study.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.

Required skills

What we offer

• Fully supported practice learning environment.
• Structured practice assessor/supervisor model.
• Access to experienced Health Visiting staff and leadership support.
• Opportunities to develop leadership and public health skills.
• Integration into a supportive, forward‑thinking team aligned to GIRFEC, The Promise and UNCRC.