The Domestic Welfare Assistant role is part of the University of Buckingham's Estates Department, within the Domestic Welfare Team. This team plays a pivotal role in maintaining a clean, safe, and supportive environment for all members of the university community, particularly students. The role exists to ensure high standards of cleanliness, service delivery, and pastoral care across the campus, supporting the university's commitment to creating a positive student experience. In addition to core campus responsibilities, the role also includes dedicated support for the Vice Chancellor's residence, ensuring high standards of domestic presentation and assistance with hospitality arrangements for university-related events. The Domestic Welfare Assistant will work closely with colleagues to encourage a culture of care and accountability. The role is directly involved in engaging with students, maintaining cleanliness across all campuses, and offering assistance when required, all while adhering to safety, compliance, and health regulations. It operates within a structured, team environment that prioritises quality, transparency, and continuous improvement.
The primary purpose of the Domestic Welfare Assistant is to provide a high level of cleanliness and support services across the University of Buckingham campus, ensuring that all areas are maintained to the highest standards of hygiene and safety. In addition to these cleaning duties, the role involves delivering pastoral care, offering a friendly, approachable presence to students and staff, and contributing to the overall welfare of the university community. The role also includes domestic support at the Vice Chancellor's residence, where the post holder will be responsible for maintaining cleanliness, undertaking ironing duties, and assisting with event preparation, including table setting and other hospitality tasks as required. The Domestic Welfare Assistant will contribute to the implementation of a customer-focused, proactive service that not only maintains cleanliness but also enhances the student experience through meaningful interactions and support. This role is integral to the smooth running of the campus and aligns with the university's commitment to creating an environment that supports academic success, well-being, and a sense of community.
Communication * Actively engage with students and staff in a friendly, approachable manner, offering a supportive presence within the campus community.
Address student welfare-related concerns by listening attentively, offering a safe environment for students to express their needs, and promptly directing them to the relevant department or support service for further assistance. * Participate in daily handovers and communication logs to ensure that any outstanding issues or site activities are efficiently communicated to the next shift. Teamwork and Motivation * Encourage a positive and supportive team environment by fostering a friendly and approachable atmosphere, motivating colleagues, and promoting a culture of collaboration and mutual respect within the Domestic Welfare team. * Collaborate with other members of the Domestic Welfare team to ensure a smooth and consistent service delivery, including assisting colleagues during busy times or absences. * Work closely with the Team Leader and Manager to ensure the effective implementation of cleaning schedules, audits, and quality standards. * Attend Toolbox Talks and Team Meetings to discuss ongoing tasks, team performance, and any areas for improvement. Service Delivery * Provide a high standard of cleaning within the Vice Chancellor's residence, including but not limited to kitchens, bathrooms, reception spaces, and bedrooms. * Carry out domestic ironing duties for the VC household as required. * Assist with hosting and supporting events at the VC's residence, including setting and clearing tables, preparing serving areas, and liaising with Catering and Estates teams as necessary. * Provide regular and thorough cleaning services across the university campus, including classrooms, accommodation, and common areas. * Ensure that all areas are cleaned to BICSc (British Institute of Cleaning Science) standards, using appropriate cleaning methods, equipment, and chemicals. * Monitor and manage cleaning supplies and equipment to ensure they are used efficiently and are well maintained. * Conduct periodic deep cleans and ad-hoc cleaning tasks as needed, following method statements and risk assessments. Initiative and Problem Solving * Address student welfare-related concerns by listening attentively, offering a safe environment for students to express their needs, and promptly directing them to the relevant department or support service for further assistance. * Report any health and safety hazards or risks promptly to the appropriate people/team. Work Environment * Follow all Health & Safety guidelines and ensure that appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is worn at all times.
Adhere to safe working practices when handling cleaning chemicals and equipment, ensuring compliance with COSHH regulations.