Ward Clerk

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Maternity Service at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust as a Band 2 Ward Clerk. This is a busy and rewarding role providing administrative, clerical and reception support across maternity inpatient and outpatient areas.

As the first point of contact for women, birthing people, families, visitors and staff, you will play a vital role in ensuring an efficient, welcoming and responsive service. You will support the smooth running of the department through accurate record keeping, effective communication and excellent customer service.

We are looking for a friendly, organised and adaptable individual who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment and demonstrate a commitment to providing outstanding support to patients and colleagues.

Main duties of the job

• Provide a professional and welcoming reception service for women, birthing people, visitors, relatives and staff.
• Respond to telephone and face-to-face enquiries, taking accurate messages and directing queries appropriately.
• Maintain accurate patient information using Trust electronic systems and databases.
• Support administrative processes including appointment changes, scanning, photocopying, filing and post distribution.
• Assist with patient admission, transfer and discharge processes.
• Check and update patient details to ensure records remain accurate and up to date.
• Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to support effective communication and patient flow.
• Maintain stock levels of stationery and consumables within the department.
• Support and guide new, temporary or bank staff with local administrative procedures when required.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times and work in line with Trust policies, data protection requirements and safeguarding responsibilities.

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 life
• NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, 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 responsibilities

The Ward Clerk will provide comprehensive administrative and reception support to the Maternity Service, helping to ensure the delivery of a safe, efficient and patient-focused service.

You will be responsible for managing patient information, maintaining accurate records, supporting ward administration processes and responding to enquiries from patients, families and healthcare professionals. The role requires excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to prioritise effectively in a busy environment.

Working closely with midwives, medical staff and the wider multidisciplinary team, you will contribute to the smooth day-to-day running of the department and support effective communication across services. You will also provide sensitive and compassionate support when dealing with patients and families who may be anxious or distressed.

The successful candidate will have strong administrative and customer service skills, a positive and flexible approach, and a commitment to upholding the Trust values of Kindness, Respect and Teamwork. Flexibility to work across the Maternity Service and assist with service cover, including weekends and extended hours where required, is essential.

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential

• GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Maths
• Excellent typing skills to RSA2 or equivalent

Desirable

• Recognised IT qualification

Experience

Essential

• Previous administrative, clerical, reception or customer-facing experience
• Experience of working with electronic systems and databases
• Experience of maintaining accurate records and information

Desirable

• Experience of working in a busy environment with competing demands
• Experience within a healthcare or NHS setting