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Phlebotomists collect blood samples from patients, and send them off for analysis and testing.
You could work: evenings / weekends / bank holidays; on shifts
As a phlebotomist, you could:
You may need to wear protective clothing.
You could work in an NHS or private hospital.
You can get into this job through:
There are no set entry requirements to become a trainee phlebotomist, although it may help to have a college qualification in healthcare or health and social care.
Courses in health and social care often include work placements. This would give you practical experience, which could help you to get a job afterwards.
You could apply to do a Healthcare Science Assistant Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, specialising in phlebotomy.
You could also do a Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, then apply for a trainee role in phlebotomy.
You'll usually need:
You could start as a healthcare assistant and work your way up through training and promotion.
You might have an advantage when looking for jobs if you have volunteering experience in a healthcare setting.
You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
You could apply directly to work as a phlebotomist. There are no set entry requirements, though it may be helpful if you have at least 2 GCSEs and a first aid certificate.
Some employers may prefer you to have a qualification in healthcare or health and social care.
You'll need to:
You can join the National Association of Phlebotomists and Institute of Biomedical Science for networking and training opportunities.
You can find out more about how to become a phlebotomist from Health Careers.
With experience, you could be a senior phlebotomist and have responsibility for more complex work. You could also become a team leader or manager.
Skills and experience in phlebotomy can also be useful for work with the NHS Blood and Transplant Service.