Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £23,615 per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: Part-time, Job Share
Application Deadline: 31 March 2025
Job Overview
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Ward Assistant / Porter to join the Acute Medical Unit within our Urgent Emergency Elderly Care Group. This role is crucial in supporting clinical teams by ensuring patient transport, equipment availability, and general ward upkeep.
If you are passionate about patient care and thrive in a fast-paced hospital environment, we encourage you to apply. Successful candidates will be expected to work with minimal supervision, using initiative to maintain a safe and well-equipped ward environment. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient experiences while working in a collaborative and dynamic healthcare setting.
Key Responsibilities
Patient Care and Support
- Safely escort and transport patients to and from the Acute Medical Unit based on their medical needs.
- Utilize various transport methods, including beds and wheelchairs, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
- Conduct pre-transfer checks and complete necessary documentation, such as patient identification verification.
- Act as a patient advocate, offering reassurance and assistance as needed.
- Assist with patient meal service, ensuring proper dietary requirements are met.
- Provide compassionate and attentive care, ensuring that patients feel safe and supported during transport.
- Follow infection control procedures and adhere to hospital safety protocols to minimize risks.
- Work closely with nurses and doctors to provide seamless support for patient mobility.
Ward and Equipment Management
- Maintain ward cleanliness by completing daily cleaning tasks and ensuring a safe, hygienic environment.
- Ensure clinical areas are well-stocked by replenishing treatment rooms and patient areas with essential medical supplies.
- Collect and deliver medical equipment and medications as required, ensuring timely availability.
- Support the nursing team by managing stock levels and restocking essential supplies to prevent shortages.
- Assist in setting up and clearing treatment areas before and after patient procedures.
- Perform regular safety checks on transport equipment, including wheelchairs and beds, to ensure they are in proper working condition.
- Deliver and collect laboratory samples, medical records, and other essential hospital documentation as needed.
Communication and Team Collaboration
- Answer phone calls and relay important messages to medical staff efficiently and accurately.
- Work collaboratively with nurses, doctors, and administrative personnel to ensure smooth operations within the ward.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to NHS patient safety standards at all times, ensuring patient dignity and privacy.
- Assist in coordinating patient transport schedules and liaising with other departments to facilitate timely care.
- Communicate effectively with patients and their families, offering clear guidance and reassurance.
- Participate in hospital-wide training programs to stay updated on best practices and safety procedures.
- Report any issues or concerns regarding patient welfare to the appropriate medical personnel.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Essential Criteria:
- GCSEs in English and Maths (Grade 9-4 / A-C)* or equivalent.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact effectively with medical staff and patients.
- Ability to work effectively in a team and independently with minimal supervision.
- Physical capability to carry out patient transport duties, including moving and handling in line with NHS safety protocols.
- Professional and compassionate approach to patient care, demonstrating empathy and sensitivity.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and work efficiently in a fast-paced hospital environment.
- High attention to detail, ensuring patient safety during transport and transfers.
Desirable Criteria:
- Previous experience in a hospital or healthcare setting, particularly in patient support roles.
- Training in patient handling, first aid, and ward assistance.
- Basic IT and record-keeping skills for logging patient transport details and inventory management.
- Familiarity with infection control procedures and hospital safety standards.
- Knowledge of emergency response protocols within a hospital setting.
Why Join Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust?
Career Growth & Development
- Access to professional development programs and NHS-funded training opportunities.
- Opportunities for career progression within the NHS Banding System, opening doors to higher roles.
- Ongoing mentorship and support from experienced healthcare professionals.
- Exposure to diverse healthcare settings, enhancing your skills and experience in patient care.
- Participation in hospital initiatives to improve patient experiences and service delivery.
Employee Benefits
- Competitive Salary: £23,615 per annum (pro-rata for part-time roles), aligned with NHS pay scales.
- NHS Pension Scheme, offering long-term financial security.
- Generous annual leave entitlement, including paid bank holidays.
- Flexible working arrangements, including part-time, job-share, and shift flexibility.
- Exclusive NHS staff discounts on shopping, travel, and leisure activities.
- Access to mental health and wellbeing support programs, ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
- On-site facilities, including staff canteens, rest areas, and medical services.
Lifestyle & Location
- Live and work in the beautiful Cornwall region, renowned for its stunning coastline, picturesque countryside, and historic landmarks.
- Enjoy an outstanding quality of life with access to outdoor activities, including surfing, hiking, and cycling.
- Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace culture that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Additional Information
Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)
- Sponsorship for Skilled Worker Visas is available for eligible international applicants.
- Candidates must meet the UK Home Office visa and employment criteria.
- For more details, visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.
Pre-Employment Checks
- Identity verification to ensure compliance with NHS employment policies.
- Professional qualification and reference checks for candidate verification.
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance to ensure patient safety.
- Occupational Health screening to assess fitness for the role.
- Adherence to NHS ethical standards and employment regulations.
For further details on NHS employment standards, please visit the NHS Employers website.
How to Apply
Click the “Apply Here” button to submit your application. Ensure that your CV highlights your relevant experience, qualifications, and key skills related to the role.
Application Deadline: 31 March 2025
Reference Number: 156-7016752
Location: Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Truro, TR1 3LJ
Join us in making a meaningful difference in patient care! Apply today and take the next step in your NHS career.