Driver with caring duties (Band 3)

Location: Downe Hospital
Hours: Full-time
Salary: £12.75 per hour
Contract: Temporary (12 Weeks) About the Role:

MPA Recruitment are seeking a Band 3 Driver with Caring Duties on behalf of the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.

You will transport Trust clients and staff safely while providing practical, respectful support to clients during their journeys. This includes assisting people who use wheelchairs or walking aids and helping clients into and out of vehicles.

The role requires an experienced bus or coach driver who is comfortable working closely with clients and supporting their individual needs.

Key Responsibilities: Driving & Passenger Safety

• Collect and transport Trust clients and staff as allocated.
• Drive clients and staff to centres, social and educational outings, and other activities as required.
• Assist clients into and out of vehicles.
• Secure passengers using the appropriate restraint devices, including wheelchair webbing and clamps.
• Use passenger tail lifts, ramps and other equipment safely.

Caring Duties

• Support clients who use wheelchairs or walking aids when preparing for and returning from journeys.
• Provide personal assistance where appropriate while respecting each client's privacy, dignity and rights.
• Offer a friendly, reassuring presence and take time to listen and talk to clients.
• Help with individual and group programmes of care and activities where required.

Service Standards

• Follow Trust health and safety, infection prevention and confidentiality requirements.
• Report accidents, incidents or equipment defects to the appropriate manager.
• Treat clients, colleagues and members of the public with courtesy and respect.

What We're Looking for? Essential Criteria Applicants must have:

• A minimum of six months' experience driving buses or coaches.
• A current, unrestricted full Category D driving licence valid for use in the UK.
• A current, valid Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
• Experience using passenger tail lifts, ramps and equipment such as wheelchair webbing and clamps.
• An understanding of confidentiality.
• Applicants will need to provide copies of their driving licence and DQC as part of the application process and produce the originals for verification if invited to interview.

Desirable Criteria

• At least 12 months' experience driving minibuses and/or coaches.
• An additional driving qualification, such as advanced motoring or safer urban driving.

Skills & Attributes

• The successful candidate will have:
• A caring, patient and respectful approach to supporting clients.
• A strong focus on passenger safety.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work with clients and colleagues.
• The ability to follow procedures and respond appropriately to clients' needs.

Additional Information:

• An Access NI Check may be required for this role.

What we can offer you:

• Weekly pay and holiday pay.
• Dedicated support from your MPA Recruitment Consultant throughout your assignment.
• Experience working within a healthcare setting.
• Support throughout registration, compliance and onboarding.

Why Apply?

• Put your driving experience to work in a role that supports people in your local community.
• Gain experience with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.
• Work in a role that combines safe passenger transport with practical client care.

MPA Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer.