At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep the paediatric ward tidy, clean, and well-stocked while assisting with meals.
- Company: Join University Hospital Southampton, a leading acute teaching Trust with great career development opportunities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and a supportive environment that values your individuality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while working in a diverse and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: GCSE level education and basic food hygiene knowledge are essential; customer service experience is a plus.
- Other info: This is an entry-level, full-time position with negotiable working days.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.
Main duties of the job:
- Ward G4 is a busy paediatric ward with a fast turnover of patients, making it vital that the ward environment is kept tidy and well stocked.
- The role includes keeping the ward environment tidy, clean, and well maintained by reporting any maintenance issues.
- You will be required to carry out daily cleaning checklists.
- Working with the store manager to do weekly orders to keep stock up to date.
- The housekeeper assists with handing out meals to the patients.
- This role is very important for the smooth running of the ward.
Working for our organisation:
University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations. Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs, and Jurassic Coast.
We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalising your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial.
At UHS, we are committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.
At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognising that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We are committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.
Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities:
This role requires a person that is hard working, friendly, and able to communicate with the team and often patients and their families. You will be required to work onsite at all times. Working days can be negotiated.
Person specification:
Trust Values- Essential criteria: Patient First, Always Improving, Working Together
- Essential criteria: Educated to GCSE level or equivalent, Basic Food Hygiene Certificate or willingness to work towards, Customer Service experience, Demonstrate ability to work autonomously
- Desirable criteria: Previous Housekeeping experience, Knowledge of, or training in, manual handling techniques, Understanding of, or training in, COSHH
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Management and Manufacturing
Industries: Hospitals and Health Care
Ward Housekeeper employer: University Hospital Southampton NHS FT
Contact Detail:
University Hospital Southampton NHS FT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ward Housekeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Ward Housekeeper, especially in a paediatric setting. Understanding the unique needs of children and their families will help you demonstrate your suitability for the role during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your customer service experience when networking or during interviews. Being able to communicate effectively with patients and their families is crucial, so share examples of how you've provided excellent service in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your commitment to continuous improvement by discussing any relevant training or certifications you have, such as a Basic Food Hygiene Certificate. If you don’t have one yet, express your willingness to obtain it, which shows initiative.
✨Tip Number 4
Connect with current employees at University Hospital Southampton through platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your application and potential interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Ward Housekeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in housekeeping or customer service. Emphasise any previous roles where you maintained cleanliness and organisation, as well as your ability to work autonomously.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that reflects your passion for maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients. Mention your understanding of the importance of hygiene in a healthcare setting and how your skills align with the values of University Hospital Southampton.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a Basic Food Hygiene Certificate or any training related to manual handling or COSHH, make sure to include this in your application. If you are willing to obtain these qualifications, mention that too.
Showcase Soft Skills: In your application, highlight your soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and friendliness. These are essential for interacting with patients and their families, as well as working effectively with the ward team.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Hospital Southampton NHS FT
✨Show Your Commitment to Cleanliness
As a Ward Housekeeper, maintaining a clean and tidy environment is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences with cleanliness and how you ensure high standards in your work.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
This role requires working closely with other staff members. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully collaborated with a team, especially in a healthcare or fast-paced environment.
✨Communicate Effectively
You will often interact with patients and their families. Practice clear and friendly communication techniques, and be ready to share examples of how you've handled difficult conversations in the past.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
The job may require you to adapt to changing situations quickly. Be ready to discuss how you manage your time and adjust your priorities, especially in a busy ward setting.