Porter

About the Role

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust invites applications for the position of Porter. This role involves providing essential support in transporting patients, laboratory specimens, blood products, and other items across the hospital site. The portering team plays a vital role in patient care by ensuring smooth and professional transfers within the hospital environment.

Shifts include days, nights, early mornings, and twilight, covering all seven days of the week. The primary location for this role is Southampton General Hospital, with duties occasionally requiring response at the hospital helipad to assist the Major Trauma team.

The organization values diversity and inclusion and strives to create a welcoming environment for all employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as an essential team member within the portering department to carry out duties throughout the Trust.
• Attend the hospital helipad to assist the Major Trauma team with patient retrieval and transfer to the Emergency Department or other hospital locations.
• Handle the respectful removal of deceased patients from wards to mortuary or holding rooms, ensuring transfer of case notes as necessary.
• Transport laboratory specimens and blood products safely and promptly between hospital wards and departments.
• Maintain a reliable, courteous, and caring approach in all interactions with patients, visitors, and staff.

Qualifications and Skills

• Good literacy and numeracy skills.
• Competent computer skills to support job activities.
• Customer care or public service NVQ qualifications are advantageous but not required.
• Experience interacting professionally with the public or other agencies is necessary.

Values and Behavioral Expectations

• Commitment to patient-centered care (Patients First).
• Continuous personal and professional improvement (Always Improving).
• Collaborative work ethic (Working Together).

Additional Information

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest acute teaching hospitals in England, providing abundant career growth and learning opportunities. The location offers excellent connectivity with an international airport and rail links, along with proximity to scenic natural areas like the New Forest and South Downs.

The hospital supports flexible working arrangements where possible to balance work with personal commitments such as family, studies, or wellbeing. The recruitment process encourages personalized application content reflecting individual strengths and experiences rather than generic submissions.

The Trust champions equality, diversity, and inclusivity to create a safe and supportive workplace. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to foster a sense of belonging and meaningful contribution within the healthcare community.