The NHS currently employs more than 1.7 million people. It is the biggest employer in the UK, and the fifth largest in the World. Caring for millions of people every day, the NHS workforce has become an institution in Britain.

It can often involve long hours, dealing with many different patients and multi-tasking lots of priorities, yet can be one of the most rewarding careers too.

With increasing pressures on the NHS and a demand for more skilled workers, why do so many want to join the NHS? Here’s a quick guide to why so many choose to work for such an important organisation:

Pay

There is a common preconception that public sector workers are underpaid for the work that they do, however that’s not the case. There are more than 300 roles on offer in the health service, and all with suitable pay for the responsibilities involved.

As a non-medical or non-clinical worker, you can expect to receive £14,294 for an entry level role and those at the most senior level can earn over £90,000.

With a variety of jobs and requirements for many different skills, there are plenty of roles that don’t require a medical degree on offer. From IT to HR, admin and even catering, there’s something to suit everyone.

Work and life balance

Balancing a busy job with our own responsibilities is something many of us face. The NHS recognises the demands its workers face and offers flexibility, allowing staff to keep their personal commitments.

Childcare and school support are also offered, making the NHS an appealing organisation to work for as family life won’t be affected by work.

Caring for the nation is an around the clock job, but the NHS doesn’t expect staff to work 24 hour shifts – with options such as shift work, part-time roles and job shares, maintaining a work and life balance is one of the attractions of the NHS.

Training

Learning new skills and developing your career is one of the advantages of working in the NHS, where there is a strong focus on training and helping staff to progress.

Many people cite a lack of opportunities as one of their reasons for wanting to leave their current employment, and this is something the NHS takes seriously for all employees.

Whether you’re part-time or full-time, the NHS offers a chance to gain extra skills and training. With regular reviews and a clear plan, all employees can develop via the Knowledge and Skills Framework.

Rewarding work

One of the main reasons for working in the NHS is the sense of satisfaction workers feel knowing they are caring for people.

Contributing to the health and wellbeing of thousands of people every day is why many choose to work for the NHS, instead of opting for a typical office job.

Whilst those in non-medical roles aren’t operating or performing life-saving treatment, they still play an important part in the NHS. Having a friendly voice to talk to on the phone, a well-maintained ward, a hot meal, posture correctors and activities to engage with, means a lot to patients.

More than 1.7 million people enjoy working for the NHS

With such a huge workforce, the NHS offers a rewarding career to millions. From offering workers the chance to advance in their career and progress within the organisation, to offering childcare options and a pension scheme, it’s clear the value the NHS affords its employees is why it’s seen by many as an attractive career option.

Niamh Spence writes for GoToJobBoard, a dedicated job board which specialises in non-clinical and non-medical roles within the NHS.