Pharmacy Assistant

Role overview

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is seeking an enthusiastic Pharmacy Assistant to join its pharmacy team at Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr in Ystrad Mynach, Wales. This is a Band 3 position for someone who is keen to deliver a high standard of service and contribute across pharmacy stores, dispensary, wards, and related clinical areas.

The post is fixed term/secondment for 7 months to cover a secondment until 01/02/2027. Anyone applying for the secondment route must obtain approval from their current line manager before submitting an application.

The Health Board welcomes applicants with protected characteristics, including disabled and neurodiverse candidates and members of the Armed Forces Community. Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and Welsh-language applications will be treated no less favourably than English-language applications. Welsh and English speakers are equally welcome to apply, although the ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this role.

What the role involves

You will work under the supervision of the senior pharmacy technician while building your skills in pharmacy services and supporting the development of the wider service. Full training will be provided to help the successful candidate complete an NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in pharmacy services where appropriate.

The job calls for a conscientious, adaptable person with strong communication and interpersonal skills. You should be self-motivated, hardworking, accurate, attentive to detail, and comfortable using computers. A solid general education is required.

Main duties

• Accurately dispense and distribute medicines and other pharmaceuticals to patients, wards, departments, hospitals, and clinics served by the Health Board.
• Handle stock medicines correctly, including receiving new deliveries, managing stock distribution, assembling emergency kits, and preparing pharmaceuticals.
• Provide clear and accurate basic non-pharmaceutical information to service users and clients.
• Use pharmacy and other computer systems to complete tasks efficiently and accurately.
• Support near-patient medicines management for in-patients on ABUHB hospital wards.
• Share responsibility for delivering a high-quality pharmacy service across the team.

Development and working environment

This post offers exposure to multiple areas of pharmacy practice, including stores, dispensary, and ward-based activity. Development opportunities will align with the skills needed for the pharmacy assistant role and for the continued improvement of the service. ABUHB also supports flexible working where possible and aims to provide an inclusive, supportive environment guided by the values of Kindness, Integrity, and Respect.

Additional information

The Health Board may close the vacancy at any time, so early applications are encouraged. If shortlisted, you will be contacted through the email address used on your application, and all recruitment communication will be sent to that email account. If successful at interview, you will receive your conditional offer and information pack by email.

The organisation operates a smoke-free policy across all ABUHB sites, and smoking is not permitted for staff, contractors, patients, or visitors. Support to quit smoking is available through the Help Me Quit Team.

This vacancy may also be withdrawn if it is filled through the internal redeployment process.

The Band 3 salary scale has been adjusted as part of the NHS Agenda for Change pay award for 2026/2027. Any applicable change will be implemented in August 2026 and backdated to 01 April 2026.

About the employer

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is an NHS organisation serving the communities of Gwent. It employs more than 14,000 staff and volunteers, delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality care across hospitals, GP practices, community services, and mental health services. Research, education, and innovation are central to its work, alongside a long-term focus on prevention, reducing health inequalities, and working in partnership with local organisations and communities.

The Health Board also offers learning and development opportunities, a comprehensive NHS benefits package, and the chance to build a meaningful career while contributing to patient care and service improvement.

Contact and support

Applicants can discuss any adjustments needed for the application or selection process directly with the recruiting manager listed in the advert. There is no need to disclose personal or medical information; simply explain what support would help you take part fully. If you need documents in a larger font or different format, such as braille, you may contact the recruiting manager or the ABUHB recruitment team on 01495 745805 option 3 or by email at [email protected].