Housekeeper, fulltime

The Housekeeper plays a vital role in creating a safe, clean, comfortable and homely environment for residents, relatives, visitors and staff.

This role supports residents’ health, wellbeing, dignity and independence by ensuring high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, while being respectful of residents’ personal space, preferences and routines.

Housekeepers are an important part of the care community and contribute directly to residents feeling safe, valued and at home.

Key Responsibilities

1. Cleaning & Environmental Standards

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the care home, including:

  • Resident bedrooms

  • Bathrooms and toilets

  • Communal areas

  • Offices and staff areas

• Follow agreed cleaning schedules, checklists and task rotas.

• Use cleaning products and equipment safely and correctly, in line with COSHH guidance.

• Ensure cleaning equipment is clean, stored safely and maintained.

2. Infection Prevention & Control

• Follow all Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) procedures, including:

  • Hand hygiene

  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Colour-coded cleaning systems

• Pay particular attention during periods of increased risk (e.g. winter viruses such as influenza, COVID-19 or norovirus).

• Promptly report any concerns relating to cleanliness, spillages or potential infection risks.

3. Respecting Residents & Promoting Dignity

• Always treat residents with kindness, compassion and respect.

• Be mindful that residents’ rooms are their private homes:

  • Knock and wait before entering

  • Respect personal belongings and preferences

• Adapt cleaning routines to suit residents’ daily routines, rest times and activities wherever possible.

• Communicate clearly and politely with residents and relatives.

4. Health, Safety & Risk Awareness

• Work in line with health and safety policies and procedures.

• Report hazards, defects or maintenance issues promptly.

• Use safe moving and handling practices when required.

• Support a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility.

5. Team Working & Communication

• Work collaboratively with care, catering, maintenance and management teams.

• Report concerns about the environment, equipment or residents’ wellbeing to the appropriate person.

• Attend team meetings, briefings and training as required.

• Contribute positively to a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.

6. Documentation & Accountability

• Complete cleaning records and checklists accurately.

• Follow policies, procedures and guidance at all times.

• Uphold confidentiality and data protection requirements.

Values & Professional Standards

All Housekeepers are expected to work in line with:

• The Health & Social Care Standards

• Care Inspectorate expectations

• The care home’s values and ethos

• A commitment to kindness, dignity, inclusion and person-centred care

Person Specification

Essential

• A caring, respectful and reliable approach to work

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Understanding of the importance of cleanliness in a care setting

• Willingness to undertake training, including infection control and health & safety

• Good communication skills

Desirable

• Experience in a care home, healthcare or hospitality setting

• Knowledge of infection prevention and control practices

• Awareness of older people’s needs and dementia-friendly environments

Training & Support

• Full induction and ongoing training provided

• Support to understand infection control, dignity in care and residents’ rights

• Opportunities to contribute ideas for improving the care environment

Safer Recruitment

This post is subject to:

• PVG Scheme membership (Scotland)

• Satisfactory references

• Right to work checks