The DCHS recruitment process

After the advertised closing date all applications are passed in electronic format through NHS Jobs or TRAC to our people resource team.

The appointing officer then receives copies of all applications and assesses them in line with the job description and person specification for their advertised role. This helps them to identify candidates who match closely with the essential and desirable criteria for the post. This is called the shortlisting process. You will be informed via email whether you have been shortlisted or not as soon as possible following the closing date.

If you are shortlisted by the appointing officer you will be invited to an interview with a panel.  The panel will consist of a 'chair' who is usually the appointing officer, together with one to three other members of DCHS staff who have experience in the recruitment and selection process. 

All invitations to interview are in writing (usually via email) and we aim to give 10 working days notice of interview dates.

Making time to prepare for an interview is always advisable, but there is no one way to prepare; what works for one person may not necessarily work well for another. There are some things all interviewees are recommended to do before attending.

• Check the invitation letter. Are you expected to do anything specific at the interview for example? Is there an assessment test? Do you have to do a presentation? 
• The panel will have prepared a set number of questions based around the job description and person specification. All applicants will be asked the same questions at interview to ensure that everyone gets an equal chance at the job. Read the job description and person specification thoroughly prior to the interview.
• Check the website and if the advert gives a contact name for an informal chat, contact them. 
• You will be asked questions in line with our values, please ensure you are familiar with the DCHS Way and what the Trust's values are.
• Please also remember to bring your ID documentation to prove your right to work in the UK, qualifications, certificates etc.
   

You will be telephoned following the interview by the chair to advise you on the outcome of your interview.

You will be telephoned whether you have been appointed or not.

If you have been unsuccessful you can be given feedback as to your performance if you require it.

If you are successful you will be sent a formal offer of employment. All offers at this stage are subject to our receiving satisfactory pre-employment checks, e.g. references, Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check (where appropriate) and a health check. We advise you to hand your notice in at this stage so that you can be working your notice whilst the pre-employment checks are carried out.

Once we receive clearance the appointing officer will contact you to agree your start date for employment.

You will then receive a contract of employment along with a link to our New Joiner Portal where you will be able to find further information and reading to prepare you for your start date including details of the DCHS corporate induction process.