Deputy Ward Manager
| Posting date: | 24 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £21.00 per hour |
| Additional salary information: | £21.00 an hour |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 13 March 2026 |
| Location: | Runcorn, WA7 6EP |
| Company: | NHS Jobs |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | B0020-26-0004 |
Summary
The deputy ward manager will support the ward manager in the clinical, operational and professional leadership of the Inpatient unit, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compassionate, person centred palliative and end-of-life care, in line with Halton Haven Hospices core values of compassion, accountability, respect and empathy. The post holder will act as a clinical role model, support and develop staff, deputise for the ward manager in their absence, ensuring safe, effective and dignified care for patients and families. Key Responsibilities Living the Halton Haven Values Demonstrate compassion and empathy in all interactions with patients, families, carers and colleagues Act with accountability, taking responsibility for clinical decisions, leadership actions and professional conduct Promote a culture of respect, inclusivity and dignity always. Lead by example, embedding Halton Havens values into daily practice and decision-making Clinical Leadership Provide expert clinical leadership and act as a role model for best practice in hospice and palliative care. Support complex symptom management, end-of-life care and advance care planning. Ensure care is holistic, individualised and responsive to the physical, emotional, spiritual and psychosocial needs of patients and families. Maintain high standards of professional practice in line with NMC code, hospice policies and national guidance. Operational & Ward Management Support the ward manager in the day-to-day management of the IPU, including patient flow, staffing and bed utilisation. Act as nurse in charge when required, coordinating safe, effective care delivery. Support effective discharge planning and transitions of care, working collaboratively with community and acute partners. Ensure staffing levels are safe and appropriate, escalating concerns in a timely and accountable manner. Staff Management, Support & Development Provide compassionate leadership, supervision and support to registered nurses and HCAs. Support induction, preceptorship, ongoing competency assessment and professional development. Contribute to staff appraisals, performance reviews and development planning. Promote staff wellbeing, psychological safety and a supportive team culture. Support sickness absence management and return to work processes with empathy and fairness. Governance, Quality & Safety Promote a strong culture of clinical governance, accountability and continuous improvement. Support investigation of incidents, complaints and near misses in an open, learning-focused manner. Ensure accurate documentation and compliance with hospice policies and regulatory requirements. Participate in audits, service evaluation and quality improvement initiatives. Communication & Teamworking Communicate effectively, sensitively and respectfully with patients and families, including during difficult or emotionally challenging conversations. Work collaboratively within the multidisciplinary team and across organisational boundaries. Represent the IPU at meetings and contribute to service development discussions as required. Education & Professional Development Maintain professional registration and ongoing CPD in line with NMC requirements. Support education, teaching and learning within the IPU Act as a mentor or supervisor to students and newly appointed staff where appropriate.