Discharge Co-ordinator

NHS; Shaftesbury; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional healthcare provider is seeking a Discharge Co-ordinator to ensure effective discharge planning for patients. You will work closely with the multidisciplinary team, engage patients during admission, and provide communication and support to their families. The position requires strong interpersonal skills and is crucial in managing timely patient discharges. Regular training and a supportive work environment are offered.

Qualifications

• Experience of completing patient-related assessments taking into account the wishes of individuals or carers.
• Confident in using digital forms, data entry systems and email communication tools.

Responsibilities

• Work alongside the MDT to ensure effective admission and discharge processes.
• Provide effective discharge planning to patients and their representatives.
• Cover a 7-day a week rota to support discharges.

Skills

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Empathy

Sensitivity

Professionalism

Computer literacy

Problem-solving

Education

GCSE Grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics

NVQ3 in administration or similar experience

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Office applications

Job description

Discharge Co-ordinator

Closing date: 30 November 2025

This is an excellent opportunity for a dynamic, organised and enthusiastic person to join our in‑patient ward team at Westminster Memorial Hospital. The role is pivotal to ensuring safe and timely discharges, working closely with the ward MDT, social services, patients and their families or friends to support and facilitate early discharge planning.

The post holder will engage patients as soon after admission as possible to understand their home environment and family circumstances, bringing in the right expertise at the right time and seeking innovative solutions. Expectations will be clearly set around the discharge journey from hospital to patients and their relatives.

Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust runs 12 community hospitals and specialist inpatient facilities across Dorset. The post holder will become part of this network, benefiting from regular training, peer supervision and a collaborative culture that delivers best practice. Employment requires a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which the Trust will cover.

Applications from candidates that require current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are unfortunately ineligible for this position.

Main Duties

• Work in the ward environment as a Discharge Co‑ordinator alongside the MDT to ensure effective admission and discharge processes are undertaken.
• Ensure effective communication with the MDT, social services, cluster leads, SPA and voluntary agencies regarding simple and complex needs identified during the admission process.
• Provide effective discharge planning to patients and their representatives that facilitates timely discharge.
• Ensure all appropriate literature is disseminated and understood by patients and their next‑of‑kin, helping set expectations and highlight any concerns early in admission.
• Cover a 7‑day a week rota to support discharges 7 days a week.

About Us

We are on a mission to empower people to make the most of their lives through our outstanding, joined‑up health‑care services. Running community hospitals, specialist inpatient facilities and a wide range of integrated community and mental health services for a population of almost 800,000 people, we are proud to be CQC‑rated ‘outstanding’ in 2019. We celebrate diversity and provide an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome and encouraged to be the best version of themselves.

Person Specification – Knowledge, Skills and Training

• GCSE Grade C or above (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics, and NVQ3 in administration or similar experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with patients, relatives and multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrates empathy, sensitivity and professionalism when supporting patients and families during complex or emotional situations.
• Experience of completing patient‑related assessments taking into account the wishes of individuals or carers.
• Computer literate with proficient use of Microsoft Excel, Outlook and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Confident in using digital forms, data entry systems and email communication tools to support patient flow and discharge processes.
• Resilient, adaptable and solution‑focused under pressure.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and the Disclosure and Barring Service will carry out the necessary checks for any previous criminal convictions.