Working as a Band 1 NHS General Support Assistant: What You Need to Know
A Band 1 NHS General Support Assistant plays a crucial role in the daily functioning of healthcare environments. While not clinical, the role is indispensable — ensuring wards and departments run smoothly. Typical duties include cleaning, portering, food distribution, and general upkeep of healthcare premises. These assistants help maintain infection control, patient comfort, and operational efficiency. In essence, they’re the invisible force behind a safe and welcoming environment for both staff and patients.
As of the 2025 NHS Agenda for Change pay scale, a Band 1 salary typically starts at around £22,383 per year (including high-cost area supplements where applicable). While entry-level, the role is often a stepping stone to higher bands and further NHS career progression, particularly through apprenticeships or internal training schemes.
If you’re applying for a Band 1 role, preparing well for your interview is key. Below are 20 common interview questions along with high-quality, tailored responses to help you stand out.
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📝 Top 20 NHS Band 1 General Support Assistant Interview Questions and Answers
Q: Why do you want to work for the NHS?
A: I’m passionate about helping others, and working in the NHS allows me to contribute to patient care in a meaningful way. I also value the diversity and professionalism of the NHS environment.
Q: What do you understand about the Band 1 General Support Assistant role?
A: It’s a support-focused role involving duties like cleaning, transporting supplies, and maintaining hygiene standards. It helps ensure patients are in a safe and comfortable environment.
Q: How would you deal with a difficult or distressed patient?
A: I would remain calm, listen attentively, and show empathy. I’d report serious concerns to a supervisor or nurse while ensuring the patient feels respected and heard.
Q: What steps do you take to ensure cleanliness and hygiene?
A: I follow strict NHS infection control guidelines, use the appropriate PPE, and ensure thorough cleaning using the correct chemicals and procedures.
Q: Are you comfortable working unsociable hours, weekends, and bank holidays?
A: Yes, I understand that patient care is 24/7. I am flexible and committed to contributing whenever I’m needed.
Q: How do you handle repetitive or physically demanding tasks?
A: I stay focused, take scheduled breaks, and maintain good posture and lifting techniques. I take pride in consistency and reliability.
Q: Describe a time when you worked as part of a team.
A: In a previous role, I collaborated with colleagues to deep-clean a ward. We communicated well and divided tasks efficiently, completing the job ahead of schedule.
Q: How do you manage your time when you have multiple tasks?
A: I prioritise based on urgency and impact on patient care. I stay organised, remain adaptable, and check in with supervisors if unsure of priorities.
Q: What would you do if you witnessed a health and safety risk?
A: I would take immediate action if safe, report the issue to my supervisor, and document it according to NHS protocols.
Q: How would you handle a disagreement with a colleague?
A: I’d try to resolve it calmly and professionally, focusing on the issue rather than personal feelings. If needed, I’d involve a supervisor to mediate.
Q: What motivates you in your work?
A: Knowing that my work directly supports patient wellbeing and a safe hospital environment gives me purpose and motivation.
Q: Have you worked in a healthcare setting before?
A: [Tailor your answer.] If not, mention transferable skills like cleanliness, attention to detail, and reliability from other industries.
Q: How would you ensure patient confidentiality?
A: I never discuss patient information outside of work and only share details with authorised personnel. I respect all privacy protocols.
Q: What would you do if you were asked to perform a task you hadn’t been trained for?
A: I’d explain that I haven’t received training and ask for support or guidance. Safety and accuracy are my priorities.
Q: Can you describe how you’d respond to a spill in a patient’s room?
A: I’d act quickly to contain and clean the spill using proper PPE and cleaning solutions, then report it per infection control procedures.
Q: What makes you a good fit for this role?
A: I am dependable, take pride in my work, and enjoy being part of a team that helps others. I have a strong work ethic and learn quickly.
Q: Tell me about a time you went above and beyond at work.
A: In a past role, I noticed a patient’s meal was missing and quickly ensured they received their food, even though it wasn’t my direct responsibility.
Q: How do you stay motivated during a long shift?
A: I set small goals throughout the day and remind myself of the positive impact my work has on patient care and staff efficiency.
Q: What do you know about infection prevention?
A: It’s vital for patient safety. I understand how to minimise cross-contamination, follow PPE protocols, and use approved cleaning methods.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 3–5 years?
A: I hope to continue progressing within the NHS, possibly training for a Band 2 or Band 3 role as I gain experience and skills.
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✨ Final Tips for Interview Success
Interviewing for a Band 1 General Support Assistant position may seem daunting, especially if it’s your first NHS job — but preparation is everything. Remember:
Dress smartly and arrive early.
Bring copies of your CV and references.
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for competency-based answers.
Show enthusiasm for working in healthcare.
Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions if you’re unsure of something.
Most importantly, be authentic. NHS hiring teams value honesty, reliability, and a caring attitude above all else.
