The jobholder will play an essential role assisting the Senior Sister/Charge Nurse with the 24 hour continuing responsibility for the effective and efficient management of the ward / department. They will contribute to the provision of professional, clinical, managerial leadership and supervision for the nursing team. The jobholder is responsible for helping to develop and maintain a ward or departments philosophy that has the patient at the centre of compassionate safe and quality care delivery. By assisting with managing the administrative and financial aspects of the ward, the jobholder will support the cost effective use of resources. As an experienced nurse the jobholder will assist in co-ordinating activities on the ward or department ensuring effective communication is maintained at all times, providing support to qualified and unqualified nurses within the ward/dept. He/she will play a key role in the assessment of patient care needs and the development, implementation and evaluation of programmes of care. The jobholder will act as a role model, promoting quality evidence-based practice, developing the nursing team and ensuring effective management of the ward/department in the absence of the Senior Sister/Charge Nurse.