At a Glance
- Tasks: Support kidney patients and their families with practical, emotional, and financial guidance.
- Company: Join Kidney Care UK, a leading charity dedicated to improving lives affected by kidney disease.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, remote work options, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Empower patients, advocate for their needs, and be a vital resource in their healthcare journey.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; passion for patient advocacy and support is key.
- Other info: Position involves travel across the Bristol region and engagement with various healthcare professionals.
The predicted salary is between 22800 - 28600 £ per year.
Job Description
Job title: Patient Support & Advocacy Officer
Reporting to: Regional Project Manager
Location: Based at home, situated across the Bristol region with regular travel to assigned renal units.
Hours: Part time hours, 18-21 hour per week over 3 days. Must be sufficiently flexible to work irregular hours as demanded by the requirements of the post.
Contract: fixed term post until the end of May 2026
Salary: £28,629 pa FTE
An opportunity to provide practical, emotional, and financial support for anyone affected by chronic kidney disease. You will engage with kidney patients, their families, and carers as a source of information, support, and advocacy, in order to improve care and wellbeing outcomes for patients.
This may be in the hospital or other care setting, on the phone, online or face-to-face in a mutually acceptable public place.
The role will cover the main renal units and satellite dialysis units across your designated area in South West / Bristol region. Frequent travel and attendance is expected at some sites.
Responsibilities
• With support, establish the Kidney Care UK Patient Support & Advocacy Service in the region so patients, their families, carers and professionals to access independent support on social, financial, health advocacy and wellbeing
• Be responsible for the day-to-day delivery of the Patient Support & Advocacy Service across the region and the effective management of a caseload. This involves regular attendance at renal clinics in the region, building relationships with health and care professionals and being available for patients in the renal unit, on the phone or online, or to meet at a mutually convenient public location
• To support patients to build the skills and confidence needed to positively navigate the challenges presented by health, social care, benefits, and financial support pathways, and to overcome barriers and promote independence
• To support patients to connect with services to ensure that they are engaged in shared decision making and that their voice is central to shaping the care and support they receive
• To raise awareness of Kidney Care UK and the benefits of the Patient Support & Advocacy Service amongst kidney patients, their families, carers, and professionals across the region
• To be a primary source of, or gateway to, local information and access to:
◌ Kidney Care UK Money & Energy Advice services, supporting income maximisation
◌ Kidney Care UK Patient Grants programme, raising awareness of the programme and supporting applications
◌ Kidney Care UK Counselling Service and other appropriate services to meet patients emotional and psychological needs
◌ Reliable and accurate patient information relating to kidney disease, patient pathways, models of care, and patient choice
◌ Benefits and finances, including employment, housing, and grants from charities including Kidney Care UK benefits and welfare service
To provide insight on patients’ concerns and unmet needs to inform Kidney Care UK research, campaigns, and new service development activity
• To maintain patient records to allow effective reporting on key performance indicators about patient activity and service outputs
• Identify and create relationships with key services and professionals across the region, to ensure patients, their families, and carers can easily access the Patient Support & Advocacy Service
• To work in a way that respects the personal, social, cultural, and spiritual needs of the individual and maintains the confidentiality of information they may have shared with you
Patient Support & Advocacy Officer (Bristol region) employer: Kidney Care UK
Contact Detail:
Kidney Care UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Patient Support & Advocacy Officer (Bristol region)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the local renal units and healthcare professionals in the Bristol region. Building relationships with these key stakeholders will be crucial for your role, so consider reaching out to them before applying to understand their needs and how you can support them.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with kidney patients and advocacy groups online or in person to gain insights into their experiences and challenges. This will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your commitment to patient support during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've supported individuals in navigating health and social care systems. Highlighting your experience in advocacy and support will show that you are well-equipped for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest developments in kidney care and related financial support services. Being knowledgeable about current resources will help you stand out as a candidate who is proactive and informed about the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Patient Support & Advocacy Officer (Bristol region)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Patient Support & Advocacy Officer position. Understand the responsibilities and the skills required, especially in relation to supporting patients with chronic kidney disease.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in patient support, advocacy, or healthcare. Emphasize any previous roles where you engaged with patients or worked in a similar environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for patient advocacy and your understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with chronic kidney disease. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide emotional and practical support.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: In your application, emphasize your communication skills, both written and verbal. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with patients, families, or healthcare professionals in the past.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kidney Care UK
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a Patient Support & Advocacy Officer. Familiarize yourself with chronic kidney disease and the specific challenges patients face, as this will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Show Empathy and Communication Skills
This role requires strong interpersonal skills. Be prepared to share examples of how you've effectively communicated with patients or clients in the past, especially in emotionally charged situations. Highlight your ability to listen actively and provide support.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the job involves irregular hours and travel across the Bristol region, emphasize your flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. Share experiences where you've successfully managed your time and adjusted to unexpected challenges.
✨Highlight Your Advocacy Experience
Discuss any previous experience you have in advocacy roles, particularly in health or social care settings. Explain how you have helped individuals navigate complex systems and access necessary resources, showcasing your commitment to patient empowerment.