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Porter
Porters
This page describes the role of porter in the NHS.
The job
Porters play a vital role throughout the hospital. They move
frail and often very ill patients between different departments
and wards in safety and comfort. They also transport complex and
valuable equipment that may need expert handling around the
building. Without them the hospital could not function.
Some portering roles may be combined with general
maintenance.
The entry requirements
No qualification entry requirements specified, but you must be
physically fit and able to cope with lifting and walking
considerable distances. If working on a large site a driving
licence may be required. Most entrants are 18 or over.
The courses
There is no formal training course/programme but most porters
will have an induction course when starting in their position.
This generally covers information about the hospital, health
& safety, lifting techniques etc. Further training is then
given on the job.
Career prospects
After experience, you could become a supervisor or porter team
leader. Further promotion to head porter or porter manager may
depend upon obtaining management qualifications.
Job vacancies
Vacancies are advertised on the NHS Jobs website (
www.jobs.nhs.uk) as well as on
trust websites, and in the local press and job centres.
