Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Rapid Access to Social Care (RASC) Care Co-ordinator is responsible for supporting the delivery of a responsive, patient-centred service that promotes independence, prevents unnecessary hospital admissions and facilitates timely discharge from hospital. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the post holder will undertake assessments, coordinate care and support arrangements, and ensure patients receive the appropriate services to meet their identified needs.

Main Responsibilities

Undertake holistic assessments of patients referred to the Rapid Access to Social Care service, identifying health, social care and environmental needs.

Coordinate, arrange and monitor packages of care and support services to enable patients to remain safely at home or return home following hospital admission.

Act as a key point of contact for patients, carers, families and partner agencies, ensuring effective communication and coordination of care.

Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams including nursing staff, therapists, social care professionals, primary care and voluntary sector organisations.

Manage and prioritise referrals, ensuring assessments and interventions are completed within agreed timescales.

Support discharge planning and admission avoidance pathways, contributing to improved patient flow and reduced delays in care.

Identify, assess and escalate risks, safeguarding concerns or changes in patient condition in accordance with Trust policies and procedures.

Maintain accurate, timely and confidential patient records using electronic systems and databases.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, case discussions and service development initiatives.

Provide advice and information to patients and carers regarding available services, support options and community resources.

Monitor patient progress and review care arrangements to ensure services continue to meet individual needs.

Support the smooth day-to-day operational running of the service, including data collection, reporting and administrative activities as required.

Ensure all activities are undertaken in line with Trust policies, professional standards, information governance requirements and relevant legislation.

Contribute to quality improvement, audit and performance monitoring activities to support the ongoing development of the service.

Maintain own professional development and participate in mandatory training, supervision, appraisal and competency assessments.

Job Review

The post holder will play a pivotal role in delivering a responsive Rapid Access to Social Care service by assessing patient needs, coordinating care and support pathways, and facilitating timely interventions that promote independence and improve patient outcomes. The role requires effective communication, organisational skills and the ability to work independently whilst maintaining strong collaborative relationships with a wide range of health and social care professionals.