Dietetic Assistants work with registered dietitians in either a community or hospital setting. A dietetic assistant working in a hospital may, for example, be involved in assisting patients requiring special diets to choose from the hospital menu, collecting information regarding patients' intake and weight as and liaising with the dietitian regarding patients' progress. Within a community setting, dietetic assistants may work with the dietitian to assess the food and health needs of local residents and assist in enabling people to eat a healthier diet to prevent disease. National Occupational Standards for Health have been developed and these will result in a  new suite of Health Awards being available. The National/Scottish Vocational Qualifications for Allied Health Support, expected to be available in July 2005, include a dietetic specific pathway which will be of particular relevance to dietetic assistants working in a hospital setting and a general pathway which includes units which will be relevant to those assistants working with dietitians in a primary care setting. Experience in a healthcare background is advantageous and good communication skills are necessary. The majority of departments in which dietetic assistants are employed provide on-the-job training specifically related to the post.

If you are interested in starting work as a Dietetic Assistant, you will find posts advertised locally. You may also find positions advertised on NHS careers.

Dietetic Assistants can now become associate members of the BDA. If you are interested in becoming an associate member, please contact us direct.