Porter

Porters play a vital role throughout NHS hospitals. 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 porter roles may be combined with general maintenance.

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.

Training

There is no formal training courses/programmes, but most porters will have an induction course when starting in their position. This generally covers information about the hospital, Health and Safety, lifting techniques etc. Further training is then given on the job.

Career prospects

After ganing some experience, you could become a superviser or porter team leader. Further promotion to head porter, or porter manager, may depend upon obtaining management qualifications.

Job vacancies

Most trusts advertise vacancies on the NHS Jobs website, as well as, on trust websites and in the local press and job centres.