Driver with Caring Duties (Band 3) – Summary

Employer: Mental Health and Disability Services (Trustwide Service)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Main Purpose

This role combines driving responsibilities with direct care and support for service users, particularly older people and those with physical or learning disabilities. The postholder will transport service users safely while providing practical assistance and support before, during, and after journeys.

Key Responsibilities

Caring Duties

• Collect and transport service users to and from Trust facilities, social centres, clubs, and outings.
• Assist passengers with mobility needs, including wheelchair users and those using walking aids.
• Help service users on outings and participate in activities as directed by facility staff.
• Provide basic First Aid when required.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and accidents, ensuring passengers receive medical attention if needed.
• Assist with facility evacuations in emergency situations.
• Deliver meals, medical supplies, equipment, furniture, laundry, and other Trust materials.
• Participate in training and, where required, on-call rotas.

Driving and Vehicle Duties

• Drive Trust vehicles safely and legally, including passenger vehicles with more than 16 seats.
• Conduct daily vehicle checks and minor maintenance (fuel, oil, water, tyres, etc.).
• Keep accurate vehicle and journey records.
• Report defects and accidents promptly.
• Maintain vehicle cleanliness.
• Operate vehicle lifts and ramps safely.

Essential Requirements

Qualifications and Licences

• Full UK driving licence with unrestricted PCV Category D entitlement (for vehicles carrying more than 16 passengers).
• Current Category D CPC qualification/card (or evidence of required CPC training).

Experience

• Experience driving vehicles with more than 16 seats.

Skills and Knowledge

• Good communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexible and able to use initiative.
• Must pass the Trust driving test.
• Understanding of the needs of older people and people with physical or learning disabilities.
• Knowledge of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust geographical area.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working with older people or individuals with physical/learning disabilities.
• Experience operating passenger lifts on vehicles.