Job Description
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has become available to join the maternity services team at North Bristol NHS Trust as a Maternity Support Worker (MSW).
This role is ideal for compassionate individuals who want to support mothers, newborn babies, and families during one of the most important moments of their lives. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary maternity team, supporting midwives and other healthcare professionals in delivering safe, respectful, and high-quality care.
Positions are available in several areas within maternity services, including:
- Antenatal wards
- Outpatient maternity clinics
- Postnatal wards
- Community midwifery services
Wherever you are based, you will help ensure women and families receive supportive care throughout pregnancy, birth, and the early days after delivery.
About the Organisation
North Bristol NHS Trust is one of the largest hospital trusts in the South West of England. Its maternity services are based at Southmead Hospital and support families across North Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset.
Each year the maternity unit supports more than 5,200 births, making it one of the largest maternity services in the UK. The service has been rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission, reflecting its commitment to providing safe, compassionate, and personalised care.
The postnatal care areas include:
Percy Phillips Ward – a 30-bed ward where families typically stay for 24–48 hours after birth.
Transitional Care Ward – a specialist area providing additional support for babies and mothers who require further monitoring for up to 7 days.
Main Responsibilities
As a Maternity Support Worker, you will assist midwives and healthcare professionals in providing both clinical and practical support to mothers and babies.
Supporting Mothers and Families
- Provide reassurance and guidance to parents as they adjust to life with a newborn.
- Offer practical support with newborn care and daily routines.
- Assist parents in developing confidence in caring for their baby.
Clinical Assistance
- Take basic observations such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature.
- Support with routine blood tests and clinical procedures.
- Act as a chaperone during examinations when required.
Infant Feeding Support
- Assist mothers with feeding their babies.
- Encourage and support breastfeeding in line with Baby Friendly Initiative standards.
Patient Care and Communication
- Help women maintain comfort, hygiene, and wellbeing during their stay.
- Escort patients and families between wards and departments if required.
- Communicate clearly and sensitively with patients and colleagues.
Administrative and Ward Support
- Maintain accurate records and documentation.
- Assist in maintaining ward stock and equipment supplies.
- Ensure clinical areas remain clean, organised, and safe.
Safeguarding and Safety
- Identify and report any concerns regarding patient wellbeing.
- Support safeguarding procedures for mothers, babies, and families.
Training and Development
- Successful applicants who do not already hold the relevant qualification will be required to complete a Level 3 Healthcare Apprenticeship while in post.
- Training will be provided to ensure you develop the clinical and communication skills needed to work safely in maternity services.
Visa Sponsorship Information
- At present, this role meet the salary threshold required for the Skilled Worker visa route.
- From April 2025, the minimum salary requirement for most Skilled Worker visa roles increased to £25,000 per year.
Essential Qualifications
Applicants should have:
- Level 3 Apprenticeship in Healthcare or RQF/QCF Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare (or willingness to complete one)
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths at grade A–C / grade 4 or above
- Basic IT skills including email, data entry, and word processing
- Information about UK qualification frameworks
Essential Experience
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Experience working in healthcare or social care settings
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Good organisational and time-management skills
Key Skills and Attributes
The ideal candidate will have:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Compassionate and patient-focused approach
- Ability to adapt to changing situations in a busy clinical environment
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Commitment to delivering high-quality patient care
Safeguarding and Background Checks
Because this role involves working with mothers and babies, the successful applicant will undergo a background check through the Disclosure and Barring Service.
- Information about DBS checks is available
- Safeguarding policies are guided by national child protection legislation
Application Process
Applications must be submitted before 17 March 2026. Due to high demand, the vacancy may close earlier once enough applications have been received.
Applicants are encouraged to regularly check their TRAC recruitment account and email inbox for updates regarding interviews or further communication.