Caretaker/Cleaner

Job description

Job responsibilities

The cleaning and caretaking role within a GP surgery is a critical component of maintaining a safe, hygienic, and welcoming environment for patients, staff, and visitors. In primary care settings, cleanliness is not merely aestheticit is a fundamental requirement for infection prevention and control. The role ensures compliance with NHS cleaning standards and Care Quality Commission (CQC) guidelines, safeguarding public health and supporting clinical operations.

This position involves a combination of routine cleaning tasks, caretaking responsibilities, and adherence to strict health and safety protocols. The individual in this role plays a vital part in reducing healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), maintaining patient confidence, and supporting the smooth running of the practice.

The job demands reliability, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility. It requires working independently and collaboratively with clinical and administrative teams to ensure that all areas of the surgeryfrom consultation rooms to communal spacesare maintained to the highest standards.

• Clinical Areas:

  • Clean and disinfect consultation rooms, treatment rooms, and minor surgery suites daily.
  • Wipe down examination couches, work surfaces, and medical equipment using approved disinfectants.
  • Ensure handwashing stations are stocked with soap, paper towels, and hand sanitiser.

• Non-Clinical Areas:

  • Clean waiting rooms, corridors, staff kitchens, and offices.
  • Vacuum carpets, mop hard floors, and dust surfaces.
  • Empty bins, including recycling and general waste, ensuring segregation of clinical and non-clinical waste.

• Toilets and Washrooms:

  • Clean and sanitise toilets, sinks, and floors.
  • Replenish toilet paper, soap, and hand towels.
  • Check for leaks or maintenance issues and report promptly.

• Follow infection control protocols for high-risk areas.
• Use colour-coded cleaning equipment to prevent cross-contamination.
• Safely handle and dispose of sharps containers and clinical waste bags.
• Deep clean areas after infectious disease exposure or outbreak.

• Unlock and secure the building at designated times.
• Monitor heating, lighting, and ventilation systems.
• Carry out minor repairs or report maintenance issues to the practice manager.
• Assist with deliveries and storage of cleaning supplies.

• Complete daily cleaning checklists and sign-off sheets.
• Maintain accurate logs for deep cleaning schedules.
• Report hazards, accidents, or near misses immediately.

The role requires strict adherence to health and safety legislation, including:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974:

  • Ensure personal safety and the safety of others while performing duties.

• COSHH Regulations:

  • Safely store and use cleaning chemicals.
  • Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, aprons, masks) when handling hazardous substances.

• Fire Safety:

  • Keep fire exits clear and report any obstructions.
  • Understand evacuation procedures and participate in drills.

• Manual Handling:

  • Use correct techniques when lifting or moving heavy items.

• Infection Control:

  • Follow NHS and CQC guidelines for cleaning in healthcare settings.
  • Report any signs of pest infestation or contamination immediately.

Working in a GP surgery involves exposure to sensitive information. The cleaner/caretaker must:

• Respect patient confidentiality at all times.
• Avoid accessing or discussing patient records or conversations.
• Comply with GDPR and practice confidentiality policies.
• Maintain a professional appearance and courteous behaviour.

Essential qualities include:

• Reliability and Punctuality: Consistent attendance and timekeeping.
• Attention to Detail: Thorough cleaning and accurate record-keeping.
• Physical Fitness: Ability to perform manual tasks and stand for extended periods.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with clinical and administrative staff.
• Communication: Report issues clearly and promptly.
• Adaptability: Respond to urgent cleaning needs or schedule changes.

The role requires treating all patients and colleagues with dignity and respect, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. The cleaner/caretaker must:

• Promote equality and non-discrimination.
• Challenge inappropriate behaviour or language.
• Support an inclusive environment that reflects NHS values.

Training is essential for maintaining standards and includes:

• Infection prevention and control updates.
• Health and safety and COSHH training.
• Fire safety and manual handling courses.
• Opportunities for NVQ Level 1 or 2 in cleaning and support services.

• Early morning or evening shifts to avoid disruption to patient care.
• Occasional weekend or bank holiday work for deep cleaning.
• Physical demands include bending, lifting, and prolonged standing.
• Exposure to cleaning chemicals and potentially infectious materials (with PPE provided).

The cleaner/caretaker plays a vital role in patient safety by:

• Reducing the risk of cross-infection.
• Creating a clean, welcoming environment that reassures patients.
• Supporting clinical staff by maintaining hygienic spaces for consultations and treatments.

This role is integral to the smooth operation of a GP surgery. By ensuring high standards of cleanliness and safety, the cleaner/caretaker supports infection control, patient confidence, and staff wellbeing. The position demands professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to NHS values.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Essential Experience
• General cleaning duties: Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and sanitizing surfaces.
• Knowledge of cleaning products and equipment: Safe handling and correct usage.
• Basic maintenance skills: Minor repairs, changing light bulbs, reporting faults.
• Health & Safety awareness: Understanding COSHH regulations and safe working practices.
• Waste management: Emptying bins, recycling procedures.

Desirable

• Desirable Experience
• Previous experience in a similar role: Caretaker, janitor, facilities assistant, or cleaner.
• Working in schools, offices, or public buildings: Familiarity with safeguarding requirements.
• Key holding and security checks: Locking/unlocking premises, alarm systems.
• Grounds maintenance: Gardening, snow clearing, or external cleaning.

Employer details

Employer name

Tower Hill Partnership Medical Practice

Address

433 Walsall Road

Perry Barr

Birmingham

B42 1BT

Employer's website

https://www.towerhillpartnershipmedicalpractice.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)