How do you become a health visitor?

1 Entry requirements

To become a health visitor, you need to be a registered nurse or midwife with at least two years of post-registration experience. You also need to complete a specialist community public health nursing (SCPHN) course at degree or postgraduate level, which usually takes one year full-time or two years part-time. The SCPHN course covers topics such as public health policy, health promotion, leadership, research, and evidence-based practice. You will also have to undertake placements in different community settings, such as clinics, schools, and homes, where you will learn from experienced health visitors and mentors. You can apply for the SCPHN course through the NHS Jobs website or directly to the universities that offer it. Some employers may sponsor you to do the course, while others may require you to have a place on the course before applying for a job as a health visitor.

2 Skills and qualities

As a health visitor, it is essential to have a range of skills and qualities to perform your role effectively and professionally. Communication is key, requiring the ability to communicate clearly and sensitively with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and situations. Additionally, you must be able to listen actively, ask relevant questions, and provide accurate and appropriate information and feedback. Empathy is also necessary to understand and respect the feelings, perspectives, and experiences of the families you work with. You should also show compassion, kindness, and support whilst recognising and responding to their emotional needs. Organisation is essential for planning and managing workloads, prioritising tasks, meeting deadlines, keeping accurate records, following policies and procedures, and reporting any issues or concerns. Problem-solving skills are also important for analysing and evaluating information, identifying risks, making informed decisions, adapting to changing circumstances, coping with uncertainty, and finding creative solutions. Leadership capabilities include leading yourself and others, delegating tasks, collaborating with other professionals, acting as a role model or mentor for clients or colleagues as well as advocating for them.

3 Career prospects

As a health visitor, you can expect to have a rewarding and challenging career that will make a positive difference in the lives of many people. You can also expect to have opportunities for professional development and career progression. You can enhance your skills and knowledge by taking additional courses, such as prescribing, safeguarding, or mental health. You can also pursue further qualifications, such as a master's or a doctorate, in areas such as public health, education, or research. You can also advance your career by taking on more senior or specialist roles, such as team leader, practice teacher, or consultant. Alternatively, you can explore other related fields, such as health policy, health management, or health education.

Becoming a health visitor is not an easy path, but it is a fulfilling and rewarding one. If you have the passion, the skills, and the qualifications to become a health visitor, you can look forward to a career that will challenge you, inspire you, and make a difference in the world.