Job summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated and enthusiastic Play Specialist to join our friendly, well-established team.
Bluefin ward cares for children and young people from birth to 18 years with various medical and surgical conditions. The unit includes an HDU area and separate Children's and Young Person's Day Unit.
We currently have a permanent position for a Play Specialist to work alongside our play assistant. You will be based on Bluefin Ward but may work in other hospital areas and become an integral part of the Bluefin team, supporting children and young people in an acute setting.
Applicants should have or be studying towards one of the following qualifications:
* Level 4 Diploma in Specialised Play for Children and Young People/Edexcel Certificate in Hospital Play Specialism or HPSC/HPSEB
* Foundation degree in Healthcare Play Specialism and experience working with children in a hospital play setting
We seek an enthusiastic, compassionate individual eager to make a positive impact on patients and families. You will receive support, supervision, mentorship, and development from our experienced staff.
Main duties of the job
* Identify children's needs and implement appropriate play programmes tailored to individual requirements
* Assess the developmental and emotional needs of children of all ages
* Establish and maintain effective communication with children, families, and the multidisciplinary team
* Negotiate sensitively with children and carers, especially if there are understanding barriers
* Communicate with children in an age-appropriate manner
* Engage with children of various ages and with complex needs effectively
* Develop and support other members of the play team, including play assistants and youth workers
See attached Job Description for further information.
About us
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength. We prioritize patient care, as reflected in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. We promote inclusion through Staff Networks, offer support such as a buddy system, and are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and Veteran Aware Trust.
We treat patients and staff with compassion and empathy. Our extensive Wellbeing Programme supports staff wellbeing. As a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching, and training to foster professional growth. We aim for a long, fulfilling career with us where your contributions are valued.
We look forward to your application and joining our community.
Candidate Information Pack: https://www.uhsussex.nhs.uk/resources/candidate-information-pack/
Job details
Date posted: 27 May 2025
Pay scheme: Agenda for change
Band: Band 4
Salary: £26,530 to £29,114 per annum pro rata
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time
Reference number: 279-7163247-MAY25
Location: Worthing, Lyndhurst Road, BN11 2DH
Job responsibilities
JOB SUMMARY
* Maintain a safe, child-focused environment where play occurs naturally
* Provide play for normalization for children and young people attending hospital
* Use your knowledge of child development across all ages when selecting recreational/play activities
Work alongside and supervise Volunteers and Student nurses where applicable.
You must work flexibly with the clinical team to ensure a safe environment and be comfortable working with children and young people in a hospital setting.
Please see attached Job Description for further information.
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