The Crucial Role of a Band 1 NHS Housekeeper: Job Overview & Expectations
When it comes to ensuring hospital cleanliness, infection control, and patient comfort, Band 1 NHS Housekeepers are the unsung heroes of the healthcare system. Their day-to-day duties include maintaining hygiene in wards and public areas, handling waste disposal, replenishing supplies, and offering friendly support to patients—all while working alongside clinical staff in a fast-paced environment.
While a Band 1 role is entry-level, it forms the backbone of the NHS’s support services. A typical salary ranges between £22,000 and £23,000 per year, depending on location and shift enhancements. As part of the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale, the position also comes with generous benefits such as paid holidays, a pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
If you’ve landed an interview for this essential position, congratulations! To help you succeed, we’ve compiled the top 20 interview questions for Band 1 NHS Housekeepers—along with sample answers, insights, and tips to give you a competitive edge.
20 Interview Questions & Model Answers for Band 1 NHS Housekeeper
Why do you want to work as a Housekeeper in the NHS?
Sample Answer: I’m passionate about contributing to patient care and understand how important a clean, safe environment is to recovery. Working in the NHS allows me to support healthcare staff and patients directly through my work.
What do you understand about infection control?
Sample Answer: Infection control means following procedures to prevent the spread of germs. This includes using PPE, properly disposing of waste, and cleaning high-touch surfaces frequently.
How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift?
Sample Answer: I start with tasks that directly impact patient safety, like cleaning wards and toilets, before moving on to less urgent tasks. I also check in with the nurse-in-charge for any immediate needs.
Describe a time when you worked as part of a team.
Sample Answer: In my previous role, I coordinated with other cleaners to deep-clean a ward overnight. We divided responsibilities efficiently and completed the job ahead of schedule.
What would you do if you noticed a biohazard spill?
Sample Answer: I would immediately report it to the appropriate supervisor and follow NHS guidelines for safe cleanup, using PPE and signage to warn others.
How do you handle working around patients who are unwell or distressed?
Sample Answer: I remain calm, respectful, and discreet. I always knock before entering and ask if it’s a good time to clean, ensuring their comfort and dignity.
Are you comfortable working with bodily fluids or unpleasant tasks?
Sample Answer: Yes, I understand this is part of the job and would approach it professionally and hygienically, using all required PPE and following safety protocols.
How do you ensure that your cleaning work meets NHS standards?
Sample Answer: I follow cleaning schedules and NHS protocols precisely, use color-coded cloths to avoid cross-contamination, and double-check high-risk areas.
Tell us how you would handle a conflict with a colleague.
Sample Answer: I would calmly discuss the issue privately, listen to their side, and aim for a solution. If needed, I’d involve a supervisor.
Have you used any cleaning equipment or chemicals before?
Sample Answer: Yes, I have used floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, and a range of NHS-approved cleaning products. I’m trained in COSHH regulations.
What are color-coded cleaning systems and why are they important?
Sample Answer: Color coding prevents cross-contamination. For example, red cloths for toilets, blue for general areas. It’s a vital infection control measure.
What would you do if a patient asked you for help outside your duties?
Sample Answer: I would politely explain that I need to inform a nurse or support worker, then immediately pass on the request to ensure the patient gets proper assistance.
How do you stay motivated during repetitive tasks?
Sample Answer: I remind myself that each task—no matter how small—makes a difference to patients’ health and comfort. That keeps me focused and driven.
Are you flexible with shifts, including weekends or nights?
Sample Answer: Yes, I understand healthcare is 24/7 and I’m fully prepared to work varied shifts as needed.
What steps do you take to maintain confidentiality?
Sample Answer: I never discuss patient details outside of work and only share information on a need-to-know basis as per NHS confidentiality guidelines.
How would you react to seeing a patient in distress?
Sample Answer: I’d calmly notify a nurse or care staff immediately and stay with the patient if it’s safe to do so until help arrives.
What does excellent customer service mean to you in a hospital?
Sample Answer: It means being polite, approachable, and professional, and doing my job in a way that contributes to a calm, clean, and welcoming environment.
How would you respond to sudden changes in your work schedule?
Sample Answer: I’d adapt quickly and stay positive. Healthcare environments are dynamic, and flexibility is part of the role.
How do you manage physical demands of the job?
Sample Answer: I pace myself, take scheduled breaks, use proper lifting techniques, and stay hydrated to maintain energy and prevent injury.
Why should we hire you for this position?
Sample Answer: I bring reliability, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to hygiene and patient care. I take pride in making a difference, even in the background.
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Final Tips: Ace Your Band 1 NHS Housekeeper Interview
Do your homework: Read the job description thoroughly and understand the Trust’s values.
Dress neatly: While not a corporate role, appearance still matters.
Be genuine: Use real-life examples to highlight your reliability and teamwork skills.
Show enthusiasm: A positive attitude goes a long way in care settings.
Practice out loud: Run through these questions with a friend or in front of a mirror.
You may not be in a clinical role, but NHS Housekeepers play a critical part in patient outcomes. Go in with confidence—you are applying to make a meaningful difference.
Best of luck with your NHS Housekeeper interview—you’ve got this!
