At a Glance
- Tasks: Support cancer patients and their families, coordinating care and providing essential administrative support.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at The Royal Marsden, a leader in cancer care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of cancer patients while working in a friendly team.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths or equivalent; experience in patient care preferred.
The predicted salary is between 29970 - 36483 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Breast Unit for a Cancer Support Worker to join our established team in Sutton. Vacancies within our team are rare - this is a unique opportunity to work in our dedicated friendly and supportive team whilst making a difference to patients and families. Are you an experienced support worker looking to make a real impact in oncology? We look forward to hearing from you.
Main duties of the job
- The post holder will form an integral part of the Breast Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) team in caring for the physical, social and psychological needs of patients diagnosed with cancer and their carers throughout their cancer care and following treatment.
- The post holder will co‑coordinate and monitor the completion of Holistic Needs Assessment by patients and escalate concerns to the CNS.
- The post holder will provide administration support to the CNS, triage phone calls, support with completing and sending referrals, liaise with community teams, update and maintain databases.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
- Triage telephone calls to the CNS team phone liaising directly with patients/carers, signposting working with defined protocols and guidelines and escalating as needed to CNS and clinical team.
- Documenting and communicating outcomes.
- Assist with completing patients and CNS staff with Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) paperwork in clinics and elevate concerns to the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) where appropriate.
- Signpost patients to services to help meet their needs identified from the HNA.
- Co‑coordinate and ensure that as patients end treatment.
- Act as the patient advocate and facilitator in order to resolve issues that may be barriers to accessing the service.
- Coordinate referrals and ensure all relevant information is present as per policy and protocols.
- Actively participate in the provision of routine information and advice for patients and carers.
Education/Qualifications
- GCSE English Language and Mathematics (Grades A-C) or equivalent
- NVQ Level 4 in Health or social care
- Care certificate or willingness to complete Medical Terminology course
Experience
- Experience in coordinating a patient workload
- Experience of multi‑professional working
- Experience in the use of data management
- Evidence of good communication skills
- Understanding of Cancer Support services across the UK.
- Awareness of Improving Outcomes: A Strategy for Cancer and other national cancer policies
- Knowledge of relevant cancer treatments, interventions and terminology
- Awareness of the Urological cancer diagnostic pathways
Skills Abilities/knowledge
- Evidence of effective negotiating and influencing skills
EEO and diversity statement
The Royal Marsden values diversity and is committed to the recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority groups. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and candidates with disabilities. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are working to create a workplace that enables all staff to reach their full potential. We are committed to this because we know that greater diversity and inclusion will lead to an even greater positive impact for the people we serve.
Flu vaccination expectation
At The Royal Marsden we have an immune compromised patient population who we must protect as much as we can against the flu virus. Each year, seasonal flu affects thousands of people in the UK. Occurring mainly in winter, it is an infectious respiratory disease capable of producing symptoms ranging from those similar to a common cold, through to very severe or even fatal disease. The wellbeing of our staff and patients is of the utmost importance to us, and it is the expectation of The Royal Marsden that all patient-facing staff have an annual flu vaccination, provided free of charge by the Trust.
Legal compliance
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Cancer Support Worker in London employer: Royal Marsden
The Royal Marsden is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Cancer Support Workers to join a dedicated and supportive team in Sutton. With a strong focus on employee growth, diversity, and inclusion, the organisation fosters a collaborative work culture where staff can make a meaningful impact on patients' lives while benefiting from comprehensive training and development opportunities. Additionally, as a Disability Confident Employer, The Royal Marsden is committed to creating an inclusive environment that empowers all employees to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cancer Support Worker in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the Breast Unit and the people who work there. This will help you connect with them during your chat and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Cancer Support Worker, you'll need to be great at talking to patients and their families. Try role-playing common scenarios with a friend or family member to boost your confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for oncology! During your interview, share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting cancer patients. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows us that you're serious about joining our team. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Cancer Support Worker in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the Cancer Support Worker role. We want to see how you can make a real impact in oncology, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant background!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting cancer patients shine through in your written application. We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference, so share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to this field.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this unique opportunity within our friendly team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Marsden
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Cancer Support Worker, especially around holistic needs assessments and patient advocacy. Brush up on relevant cancer treatments and terminology so you can speak confidently about how you can support patients and their families.
✨Show Your Compassion
This role is all about making a difference in people's lives. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences that highlight your empathy and ability to support patients emotionally. Show them you understand the importance of being a compassionate advocate.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with patients, carers, and the clinical team, effective communication is key. Think of scenarios where you've had to triage calls or document outcomes, and be ready to discuss how you handled those situations. Clear communication can make all the difference in this role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, patient care protocols, and how they measure success in this role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and work style.