About this role
Job summary
We are looking for a professional, organised, and compassionate individual to work as an integral member of a small, supportive team of administrators and clinicians, providing administrative and reception cover within the Pre-operative Assessment Clinic (POAC). The role is based across Dene Barton and County Hall.
The post holder will deliver a high-quality, patient-focused reception service, supporting patients as they prepare for surgery. This role requires a calm, empathetic approach, particularly when working with individuals who may feel anxious or distressed prior to their procedures.
The post holder will play a key role in supporting the organisation's commitment to excellence by embedding and promoting the Trust values of working together, listening, and leading, to deliver outstanding patient care.
Main duties of the job
To provide welcoming and professional reception cover with patience and efficiency in a range of situations including where patients may be distressed.
Key responsibilities include:
Providing a welcoming, efficient, and professional reception service for patients attending the POACCommunicating clearly and sensitively with patients and relatives, particularly where there may be delays or concerns related to upcoming proceduresLiaising effectively with the Admissions Team regarding referral queries and clinic bookingsUsing a range of communication systems, including telephone, email, written correspondence, and electronic patient record systemsManaging patient queries and concerns appropriately, ensuring confidentiality and sensitivity at all timesSupporting patients who may feel anxious, distressed, or worried about their surgery, responding with empathy and escalating concerns where appropriateWorking closely with the Front-Line Manager to ensure clinic lists and clinical diary capacity are utilised efficientlyMaintaining accurate records and ensuring all administrative processes support a smooth patient journeyThe successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication and organisational skills, the ability to prioritise workload, and a commitment to delivering high-quality care within a busy clinical environment.
About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
Flexible working options to help you balance work and lifeNHS pension scheme for long-term financial securityGenerous annual leave allowance to recharge and relaxA strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potentialAdditionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.
Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Job description Job responsibilities Please see attached Job Description & Person Specification for further details of duties and responsibilities.
Person Specification
Qualifications Essential
GCSE/O Level English Computer Literacy
Desirable
Typing Skills GCSE/O Level Maths
Experience Essential
Experience of general clerical/administration duties Experience of call handling
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details Employer name Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Address County Hall
The Crescent
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 4DY
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)