Administrator/Receptionist

Job summary

We are seeking a highly organised and personable Receptionist/Administrator to join our small and supportive reception team within the Mental Health & Learning Disabilities service in Taunton. This is a front-facing role where you will play a key part in welcoming patients, managing enquiries, and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of reception and administrative functions.

The successful candidate will bring a positive, "can do" attitude, strong customer service skills, and the ability to work calmly and professionally in a busy environment. Previous experience in a reception or bookings role is desirable, and confidence using telephone and email communication is essential. This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a compassionate service supporting some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community.

We warmly welcome visits to the department prior to application - please refer to the contact details in the job listing to arrange a visit.

Main duties, tasks & skills required

• Greet clients and visitors in a courteous and professional manner on arrival at reception.

• Notify clinical staff of patient arrivals and assist with any immediate needs.

• Manage telephone calls: taking messages, directing enquiries, and supporting patients with information.

• Book, cancel, and rearrange appointments using the electronic patient record system.

• Handle incoming and outgoing post, scan and upload documents, and maintain accurate records.

• Assist in processing referrals and coordinating bookings for the clinical team.

• Support with data input, administrative tasks, and the smooth running of the reception and office environment.

• Provide cross-cover for colleagues and assist with the induction of new team members.

• Participate in meetings and mandatory training relevant to the role.

About us

As an organisation, the NHS offers a wide range of benefits including flexible working, fantastic pension contributions, market leading annual leave allowance, career progression and regular conversations, not to mention our Blue Light Card and NHS exclusive discounts.

The benefits of working in Somerset include the idyllic countryside, with our areas of outstanding beauty and stunning coastlines. You will get to enjoy these perks whilst still only being a stone's throw away from bustling city centres like Bristol, Bath and Exeter and only two hours away from London.

There are excellent educational facilities in the area and, when compared to other regions, house prices are reasonable. You will to experience the best of both in Somerset, the countryside and the cosmopolitan - there is truly something for everyone!

Job description

This post sits within the Community Mental Health team in Taunton and forms part of the wider Mental Health & Learning Disabilities Directorate. You will work closely with the Senior Secretary and other team members to ensure patients, carers, and professionals are greeted and supported in a compassionate and efficient manner.

You will use a variety of Trust systems to manage patient information, support the processing of referrals, and coordinate clinic bookings. The role involves frequent use of IT equipment and requires attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

You may be the first point of contact for patients who are distressed or anxious, so empathy, discretion, and professionalism are vital. The ability to manage interruptions, multitask, and respond to changing priorities is also key to success in this role.

The post is based at Foundation House in Taunton and may involve occasional travel to other Trust locations for training or meetings.

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential

• GCSE English.
• Level 2 NVQ Business Administration or equivalent

Desirable

• Typing skills (minimum RSA or equivalent).

Experience

Essential

• Experience of general clerical/administration duties.
• Accurate word processing skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Word

Desirable

• NHS/Social Care/Public Sector experience.
• Experience of mental health/learning disability
• Experience of databases and computer literacy

Additional Criteria

Essential

• Good organisational skills
• Evidence of a good standard of literacy/English language skills

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.

For help with your application, contact:

Leala Watson

[email protected]

07880076784