Play Support Worker

Job overview

This is an exciting opportunity to join our dedicated Paediatric Play Team, supporting the delivery of high-quality play services to children and young people receiving care.

Your role will involve preparing play areas, supporting play sessions, and ensuring a safe, welcoming, and stimulating environment for patients of all ages. You will help facilitate both structured and unstructured play activities that promote emotional wellbeing, distraction, and development, tailored to the individual needs of each child.

As a valued member of the multidisciplinary team,  you may support patients during procedures or treatments through distraction and play techniques under supervision.

We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, compassionate, and committed to delivering child-centred care. Experience working with children in a healthcare, educational, or play setting is essential, along with a good understanding of the importance of play in a hospital environment.

If you’re passionate about supporting children and families through challenging times and keen to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Main duties of the job

You will contribute to the delivery of a high-quality play service within the paediatric setting, ensuring that all children, young people, families, staff, and members of the public are treated with kindness, respect, and dignity at all times. Providing a warm and welcoming environment, you will offer prompt and courteous support to those requiring assistance.

Working under the guidance of a Play Specialist, you will organise and supervise both individual and group play activities that reflect each child’s age, stage of development, medical needs, and personal interests. You will ensure that play is inclusive, therapeutic, and culturally appropriate, promoting emotional wellbeing and aiding in the hospital experience.

You will also assist in preparing and maintaining play areas and resources, ensuring that all toys and equipment are clean, safe, and suitable for use. You will take responsibility for the health, safety, and wellbeing of children in your care, remaining vigilant and responsive to their needs.

Maintaining clear and effective communication is essential in this role. You will be expected to liaise sensitively and professionally with children, families, and members of the multidisciplinary team, contributing to a coordinated and supportive care environment.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For a full list of responsibilities and tasks associated with this role, please refer to the job description/person specification attached to this vacancy.