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 RCNi Nursing 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.

Writing a good application

Recruitment processes are varied in the independent sector so always check the job advert. Some employers may request a CV, others may expect a CV and covering letter, and others may want a supporting statement or have their own application portal.

You will need to carefully tailor any existing CV, covering letter, or statement to your target role, taking into account the employer's individual needs or priorities, and any essential or desirable criteria listed. 

See our detailed online advice on CV Writing or writing applications which include templates and samples. The RCN Careers Service can also check your CV, covering letter or supporting statement, and offer ideas on tailoring it to a specific role or sector.

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 which can be used in other roles and areas.
• Join some of our many forums, such as the general practice forum, older people's forum, care home network, or the critical care and flight nursing forum. As well as being packed with useful resources, each forum also has its own private Facebook group where you can connect with your peers working in these fields for advice, insight or moral support.
• Browse job adverts and check through the job descriptions and person specifications to get a better idea of desirable skills, knowledge, experience or training.
• Before applying for a job, request an informal visit or informal chat if possible. 
• See our Job Applications and Supporting Statements page for guidance on writing a strong application. The RCN Careers team can offer personalised feedback and advice.
• If you're invited to an interview, read our guidance on Interview Skills and considering booking an interview coaching appointment. 

Professional Development

See our page on Career Progression for advice on planning your next steps, identifying development opportunities, and making the most of your skills and experience.

Other useful resources include CPD and searching for courses and examples of free courses and online learning.

RCN Career Coaching

If you’re unsure about your next steps, you may want to read more about the RCN Career Coaching service. 

Coaching sessions could focus on identifying your transferable skills, strengths, and core values to help you make informed decisions about your career direction.

More resources

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

RCN Advice also has useful information about working in the independent sector including pay, contracts, and making a pay claim.

The RCN Employment Standards for Independent Health and Social Care Sectors sets out what we expect employers in these settings to deliver for the nursing workforce.