In 2026, NHS recruitment is strictly Values-Based. When you reach the “Supporting Information” section of your application on Trac or NHS Jobs, the hiring manager isn’t just looking at your history—they are scoring you against the Person Specification.
If you don’t provide specific evidence for every “Essential” criteria, the system may automatically filter you out before a human even sees your name. Here is how to write a statement that wins an interview.
1. The Golden Rule: Mirror the Person Specification
Every NHS job advert has an attached document called the Person Specification. It lists “Essential” and “Desirable” criteria (e.g., “Experience of handling sensitive data” or “Ability to remain calm under pressure”).
Your Strategy: Use the criteria as sub-headings in your statement.
Example Heading: Experience in Customer Service and Communication Under this, write 1–2 paragraphs proving you meet that specific requirement. This makes it incredibly easy for the recruiter to give you maximum points.
2. Use the “STARR” Method for Every Example
Don’t just say you have a skill; prove it. In 2026, the STARR method is the gold standard for NHS applications:
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S (Situation): Briefly set the scene.
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T (Task): What was the challenge or goal?
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A (Action): What did YOU specifically do? (Use “I,” not “we”).
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R (Result): What was the positive outcome?
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R (Reflection): What did you learn, and how does it apply to this NHS role?
Example STARR Paragraph (for an Admin Role):
“In my previous role as a retail assistant (S), I dealt with a highly distressed customer whose order was lost (T). I actively listened to their concerns, remained calm, and used our tracking system to locate the item (A). The customer left happy and later sent a commendation (R). I learned that in high-pressure environments, empathy is as important as technical problem-solving (R).”
3. Weaving in the 2026 NHS Values
Even for non-medical roles (like Porters, Admin, or IT), you must demonstrate the 6 Core NHS Values. Don’t just list them—show how you live them:
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Working together for patients: How do you help the team succeed?
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Respect and dignity: How do you treat people as individuals?
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Commitment to quality of care: Do you double-check your work for errors?
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Compassion: Can you show kindness in difficult moments?
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Improving lives: How does your work contribute to a better service?
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Everyone counts: How do you support equality and diversity?
4. Addressing AI in 2026 Applications
Warning: While tools like ChatGPT are common in 2026, NHS hiring managers are increasingly trained to spot “generic” AI-generated statements.
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Do: Use AI to help structure your thoughts or fix your grammar.
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Don’t: Copy-paste a generic “I am a hardworking professional” statement. It lacks the personal reflection and specific local Trust knowledge that scorers look for. Mention the specific Trust you are applying to (e.g., “I am inspired by the [Trust Name] commitment to green energy…”).
5. Quick Checklist Before Submitting
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Word Count: Aim for 800–1,200 words. Too short looks lazy; too long won’t be read.
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Spelling: The NHS has zero tolerance for spelling errors in admin or medical roles.
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Gaps: Ensure you have explained any gaps in your employment history (e.g., “Career break for childcare”).
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Formatting: Use bullet points and clear headings to make it “scannable.”
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