NHS Values

It's important that our students on health care, social care and dental courses have the right values – and demonstrate the appropriate behaviours – that are required to work in the field.

That's why for our health care, social care and dental courses, we make sure the values outlined in the NHS Constitution are embedded in everything we do, from the processes and materials used during the application process, to the teaching and support you'll experience once your course begins.

What is the NHS Constitution?

The NHS constitution sets out rights for patients, public and staff. It also outlines the NHS' commitments to patients and staff, and the responsibilities that the public, patients and staff owe to one another to ensure that the NHS operates fairly and effectively.

The constitution sets out a commitment for government to produce an up-to-date statement of NHS accountability to explain how decision-making works in the NHS. You can find this at the UK government's ‘Guide to the Healthcare System in England’ page.

All NHS bodies and private and third sector providers supplying NHS services are required by law to take account of the constitution in their decisions and actions.

Demonstrating the values of the NHS Constitution when you apply

When you apply for a health and social care course at the University, we'll be looking for proof that you share the values outlined in the NHS Constitution. It's also an opportunity to show how you align with our mission, vision and values and the principles outlined in our Student Charter.

Your personal statement is the first opportunity you'll have to do that – here are some helpful tips to help you write yours.

• Make it clear why are you interested in this profession, and tell us the story behind your interest in health and social care work
• Identify what work experience or volunteering you have undertaken and give any examples of great work you've done already
• Make the most of any directly relevant work experience or shadowing days
• Where possible, clearly identify behaviours that demonstrate that you have the values required to work in a health or social care environment
• Make the most of your course content and highlight any experiences that relate to your chosen course
• Demonstrate insight and understanding of the professional registered role you are interested in

Once we've reviewed your initial application, we may invite you for an interview – and that's another opportunity to demonstrate how your values align with those of the NHS and the University.

To prepare for the questions we'll ask, we suggest you:

• Read up on the course, the Faculty of Science and Health and the University
• Research the profession you're interested in entering, including any professional bodies associated with it
• Research current news related the general area of health and social care
• Be prepared to talk about any relevant work experience you have
• Be prepared for questions around the NHS Constitution, and the values of the NHS and the University
• Practice dealing with ‘what if’ scenarios, some of which may be clinically based
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions