About this role
Job summary
We are looking for a compassionate, enthusiastic and reliable Cancer Support Worker to deliver person-centred practical and emotional support for people affected by cancer, completing holistic needs assessments, coordinating care and referrals and signposting to services so patients and families can access timely, safe and equitable support across Somerset.
The Cancer Support Worker department provides a single point of contact for people living with and beyond cancer, offering information, emotional support and practical help. Cancer Support Workers supports tasks relating to the Cancer Personalised Care and Support (PCS) programme (including Holistic Needs Assessments, Health and Wellbeing Events, Treatment Summaries and Remote monitoring Systems).
We have permanent full-time and part-time opportunities available at Yeovil District Hospital, as well as a full-time fixed-term (9 months) position at Musgrove Park Hospital
Main duties of the job
As a Cancer Support Worker, you'll play a vital role in guiding and supporting individuals affected by cancer. You'll provide clear, compassionate information about cancer and available services, helping people navigate the health and social care system and make informed choices that fit their needs and lifestyle.
This role is all about connection. You'll engage daily with patients, families, carers, and healthcare professionals, whether face-to-face or over the phone, ensuring everyone feels supported throughout their journey.
A key part of your work will be delivering Personalised Care and Support Planning through Holistic Needs Assessments at diagnosis and other key stages. Using structured conversations and assessment tools, you'll identify what matters most to patients and carers, ensuring they receive the right help at the right time. You'll also lead Health and Wellbeing events across the county, monitor patients on Personalised Stratified Follow-Up (PSFU) pathways via the Trust's Remote Monitoring System, and contribute to Treatment Summaries.
Your role goes beyond coordination. You'll empower patients and carers by connecting them to the right resources, promoting independence, and supporting self-management wherever possible. By working in partnership, you'll help people feel confident and in control of their care.
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 for more information as well as a full list of duties and responsibilities.
Person Specification
Qualifications Essential
English Language and Mathematics (Grades A -- C) or equivalent NVQ3 / 4 plus additional training to diploma or equivalent Evidence of continued role development Willingness to undertake Macmillan learning and development courses
Desirable
Coaching and teaching qualification Level 2 psychological skills training
Experience Essential
Relevant health or social care experience at AFC level 3 or 4 Experience of Multiprofessional working Experience in the use of data management
Desirable
Experience of coordinating a patient workload
Additional Criteria Desirable
Access to a car Valid UK Driving Licence
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 Yeovil District Hospital
Higher Kingston
Yeovil
Somerset
BA21 4AT
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)