Independent Sector

The independent sector encompasses a wide range of areas, covering everything from care homes to cruise ships. Whether you are considering a move to the independent sector or want to progress within it, this page has advice and resources to help you with the next step in your career.

You may be wondering; what type of jobs are in the independent sector and how do I apply? Or you may feel like it's time for a change and want to know how the Careers Team can help. 

The good news is there are lots of opportunities in the independent sector including areas like general practice, care homes, occupational health, education, research, private hospitals and many more. 

Independent sector jobs are advertised in a variety of ways. Here are some ways to get started: 

• We have a variety of tips and advice on our Searching for jobs page.
• Search for jobs and sign up to alerts with RCN Bulletin Jobs where there are many independent sector jobs including areas like care homes, education and research. 
• Attend a Careers Fair to network and meet employers who are looking to recruit. Top Tip: Take your CV

Update your CV

Recruitment process are varied in the independent sector. It's best to take a proactive approach and use your initiative. Many employers will be pleased to hear from a potential new employee. It's really useful to have an up-to-date CV ready to send. The Careers Team can help you with this - we have detailed guidance on CV Writing including template and sample CVs.

Top tip: We can check your CV if you're an RCN member

Changing role or area

You may be feeling like it's time for a change. Luckily there's lots of variety in the independent sector ranging from education to flight nursing. If you're interested in exploring a new area, follow these handy tips:

• Have a look at the case studies in our Nursing Careers Resource which include key information about moving into areas like general practice, care homes, research, education, leadership and more. 
• Identify your Transferable Skills - these are skills which can be used in other roles and areas.
• Find an advert for the role you're interested in and check through the job description and person specification.
• Check what the recruitment process involves; email the named contact and request an informal discussion if possible. 
• If you're required to write a supporting statement as part of your application, have a look at our Job Applications and Supporting Statements page for guidance. 
• If you're invited to an interview, read our guidance on Interview Skills.

Top Tip: RCN members can have interview coaching sessions

Professional Development

If you're looking to develop your skills, start by speaking to your manager and checking any relevant policies at work. See our CPD and Searching for courses page for more tips and options.

There are a variety of useful resources on our Nursing across social care and independent health services page.