Overview
Job title: Communications and Media Officer. Interview Date: TBC.
We are looking for a talented and enthusiastic Communications and Media Officer to join our fast-paced and collaborative Communications Team at Barnsley Hospital. You will work as part of our dynamic Communications Team to develop and deliver a wide range of communications plans and activities. This is an opportunity to be involved in an exciting and varied communications function. Our small team strategically leads the Trust’s internal and external communications, helping to build and maintain public awareness and confidence in the service it provides, at a time of change and ambition for the NHS, as well as keen media interest and public scrutiny.
The post holder will lead on working with multiple stakeholders to create high quality, clear and accessible content and campaigns designed to engage our audiences, which include our large and diverse workforce, partners, patients and the public. You will work with managers and colleagues, including senior directors and clinicians throughout the organisation, to support business priorities strategically, via a range of communications practices. The role is pivotal to clearly communicating and showcasing our whole hospital service.
Responsibilities
* Seek out, draft and obtain approval for weekly stories, creating versions for external and internal communications channels, including web, social media, traditional print and broadcast media, intranet, apps, email bulletins, and a weekly online staff magazine.
* Handle complex media enquiries and support reputation management.
* Collaborate with internal teams and external local, regional and national partners to deliver integrated communications and ensure joined-up working.
* Attend project meetings and develop strategic communications plans.
* Support event management, VIP visits, and campaigns.
* Promote patient-centred care, NHS and Trust values, and inclusivity in all communications.
* Deliver work that improves patient outcomes and experience of the NHS, supports staff morale, showcases Barnsley Hospital as a great place to work, and clearly informs the public we serve about our evolving services.
Qualifications & Experience
* Significant experience producing high quality written and digital content for external and internal channels (print, web, social media).
* Experience producing rich media content such as video.
* Experience operating in a politically sensitive environment and handling media enquiries.
* Evidence of continued professional development and ability to coordinate projects in complex environments.
* Experience drafting briefing papers and correspondence and managing stakeholder relationships.
* Ability to work in a busy environment and manage competing priorities, often at short notice.
Desirable
* Previous experience in a similar public sector role.
Skills & Abilities
* Good relationship management; clear writing, reporting and presentation skills; ability to convey ideas concisely for diverse audiences.
* Project and programme management experience.
* Ability to communicate on complex matters, persuading and influencing others where needed.
* Ability to analyse information, anticipate issues, and determine appropriate actions.
* Problem solving, strategic thinking, attention to detail, and independent judgement.
Trust Values
* Describe, in around 100 words, what Equality & Diversity means to you and why it is important.
* Describe, in around 100 words, what motivates you to do a good job.
Qualifications
* A marketing or communications qualification or equivalent experience in a marketing or communications role.
Knowledge & Awareness
* Good knowledge of professional and appropriate communication practice; understanding of public sector expectations to be open, honest and non-political.
* Commitment to continuing professional development; effective organiser; focus on improving performance and achieving goals.
Additional Details
* Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check: post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act requirements and a DBS disclosure may be required.
* Pay: Agenda for Change band 5 (£31,049 to £37,796 per year pro rata, subject to Job Evaluation).
* Location: Pogmoor Road, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 2EP.
* Contract: Permanent; Working pattern: Full-time, Flexible working.
Details Date posted: 29 August 2025
Employer
Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Address: Pogmoor Road, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 2EP
Website: https://www.barnsleyhospital.nhs.uk
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