Healthcare Support Worker

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust; Torquay; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a Healthcare Support Worker on the McCallum Short Stay Ward to deliver compassionate nursing support and patient-centred care. You will assist with personal care, support clinical tasks, and advocate for patient safety in a busy short-stay setting.

The role offers training and development opportunities within the Trust, with a friendly team on Ricky Grant Day Unit and Turner Ward, and opportunities to contribute to a rewarding cancer care

Qualifications

• Caring nature and strong communication skills
• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced clinical environment
• Ability to follow policies and document care accurately

Responsibilities

• Provide patient-centred care in line with Trust policies, including personal care and promoting independence.
• Perform clinical tasks as trained (observations, venepuncture, ECGs) and escalate when needed.
• Work either independently or in a team to prioritise patient needs and use equipment correctly.
• Maintain accurate records (care plans, observations, intake) and support nutrition and hydration.
• Mentor less experienced staff and uphold Trust values and professional standards

Job description

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of cancer patients?

As a Healthcare Support Worker, you will play a crucial role in delivering compassionate, patient-centred care. Based on the McCallum Short Stay Ward, you’ll be at the heart of providing essential nursing support, clinical interventions, and emotional care to patients. Whether assisting with personal care, performing vital clinical tasks like venepuncture and ECGs, or advocating for patient safety and wellbeing, you’ll contribute meaningfully to the patient journey.

We’re looking for individuals with a caring nature, strong communication skills, and a commitment to excellence. If you’re flexible, eager to learn new skills, and thrive in a fast-paced yet supportive environment, this role is for you. In return, you’ll join a team that’s as passionate about your growth as they are about patient care, with access to robust training, career development opportunities, and the chance to make a real impact in a rewarding specialty. Take the next step in your healthcare career with us—where your dedication truly changes lives.

• Provide patient-centered care in line with Trust policies, including personal care (e.g., washing, dressing, toileting) while promoting independence. Use effective communication skills to overcome barriers, offering reassurance, empathy, and persuasion.
• Undertake training to perform clinical interventions (e.g., observations, venepuncture, ECGs, cannula insertion/removal, urinalysis) and remain competent in these skills. Assess patients’ conditions using tools like NEWS2, pain assessments, and escalates concerns appropriately.
• Work independently or within a team, prioritizing patient needs, and demonstrate accurate use of equipment for interventions. Support patients at risk (e.g., falls, pressure damage) by following care plans and escalating changes in condition. Promote mobility, independence, and mental stimulation through appropriate activities.
• Ensure adherence to Trust policies and maintain accurate documentation (e.g., care plans, observations, fluid/food charts). Assist with nutrition by supporting mealtimes and recording intake. Act as an advocate for patient safety, safeguarding from harm, and reporting concerns or incidents through the Trust's system.
• Provide guidance to less experienced staff, ensuring safe practices, maintaining clinical environments, and performing quality control checks to uphold standards. Demonstrate Trust values and a professional approach in all aspects of care.

You will be working with a friendly and dynamic team in a fast-paced environment supporting patients on the Ricky Grant Day Unit and Turner Ward.

McCallum Ward

McCallum Ward provides short stay acute medical care. It is an 17-bedded ward. The ward is staffed by highly skilled specialist staff including dedicated dieticians, occupational therapists and medical team.

Please note:

Priority will be given to applicants with recognised 'Priority' or 'At Risk' status, including NHS staff identified across Devon.

For further details / informal visits contact: Name: Leonie Price Job title: Ward Manager Email address: [e-mail] Telephone number: 01803 656950