Temporary Part-time Switchboard Operator

NHS; Kendal; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking part-time Switchboard Operators to join a friendly team at a leading hospital. This role offers a unique opportunity to be the first point of contact for patients and staff, ensuring smooth communication and coordination during emergencies. You will operate advanced switchboard systems, manage sensitive information, and contribute to the hospital's safety protocols. With flexible shifts and the potential for contract extension, this position is ideal for those looking to make a meaningful impact in a healthcare setting while enjoying a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
• Experience in handling emergency situations with calmness.

Responsibilities

• Operate the hospital switchboard and respond to all enquiries.
• Coordinate responses during emergencies and monitor alarm systems.

Skills

Effective Communication

Emergency Response Coordination

Confidentiality Handling

Incident Reporting

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Hospital Paging Systems

Trust Incident Reporting System

Job description

Job summary

9 month Part-time Switchboard Operator, Westmorland General Hospital

We are looking to recruit two part-time members of staff to join a small and friendly team providing switchboard services for Westmorland General Hospital, Furness General Hospital, and the Royal Lancaster Infirmary. The switchboard, based at Westmorland General Hospital, is a 24-hour service provided over 7 days a week.

The total weekly hours of cover required are up to 37.5 hours. There are various shift hours including 8am to 3.30pm, 3.30pm to 9.30pm, or some weekends 8.45am to 6pm. Additional hours may be available to cover leave.

There may be a possibility of contract extension depending on circumstances.

Allowances are paid for night and weekend work.

Main duties of the job

1. Operate the hospital ARC computerised switchboard and bleep systems, acting as the first point of contact for all enquiries, including internal and external callers.
2. Follow procedures for on-call arrangements for UHMBT and other NHS organisations, including One LSC, Community, Psychiatry, and Commissioning Groups.
3. Assist in coordinating responses during emergencies following specific procedures.
4. Monitor alarm systems for fridges, boilers, gases, and fire, taking appropriate action as per policies.
5. Provide a Porter Allocation service across the 3 main sites, communicating with departments to prioritise jobs and minimise patient flow disruption.

About us

This role involves working with colleagues to respond to and direct calls, use hospital paging systems, respond to emergencies, keep rota information updated, and assist with portering job allocations.

Training will be provided.

Details

• Date posted: 09 May 2025
• Pay scheme: Agenda for change
• Band: Band 3
• Salary: £24,625 to £25,674 per year (Pro rata)
• Contract: Fixed term
• Duration: 9 months
• Working pattern: Part-time
• Reference number: 435-1LSC-UHMBT-019-25
• Location: Westmorland General Hospital, Burton Road, Kendal, LA9 7RG

Job responsibilities

General

• Communicate effectively with internal and external contacts, support emergency responses, contact Medical Consultants, and escalate issues as needed.
• Coordinate responses during major incidents or emergencies, including security or bomb alerts across hospital sites.
• Maintain sensitivity, calmness, and empathy when interacting with patients, visitors, or staff, handling confidential and sensitive information.
• Arrange cover for sickness out of hours or in the absence of the Switchboard Manager by contacting colleagues promptly.
• Book ad hoc transport services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timeliness.
• Use the Trust Incident reporting system to report incidents, near misses, or risks, encouraging colleagues to do the same.

Outside office hours

• Issue accommodation keys to contracted and locum staff, ensuring proper documentation to prevent security risks.
• Monitor security cameras in Switchboard and contact Police if necessary.
• Perform access/egress checks at the hospital overnight, supporting safety and security.