Overview
Play Assistant in a Paediatric Emergency Department, based at Darlington Memorial Hospital, to support emotional and psychological needs of children during hospital visits.
Job Responsibilities
* Provide developmental, therapeutic and specialised play techniques for all ages and diversities to support emotional, social and developmental needs and help alleviate emotional trauma within families.
* Use distraction and comfort activities (games, art, storytelling) to reduce distress during procedures or waiting times.
* Engage in therapeutic play to help children understand and cope with illness, injuries, or upcoming procedures in an age-appropriate way.
* Offer emotional support to children and families and help navigate the emergency department environment.
* Promote normalcy through play and maintain a welcoming, child-friendly environment with age-appropriate toys, books and activities.
* Collaborate with doctors, nurses and other healthcare staff to provide insights into a child\'s emotional state and needs; help prepare children for procedures using play to explain what will happen.
* Assist in creating a supportive atmosphere that enhances the patient journey.
Person Specification
Essential
* Rotational shift patterns
* Understanding of developmental, social and psychological needs of children, young people and their families
* Knowledge of developmental needs from birth to 18 years, including diverse cultures and special needs
* Understanding health & safety issues and confidentiality/data protection
* Leadership skills in leading play services and projects
* Ability to empower colleagues in providing specialised play materials and interaction; strong communication
* Negotiation, organisation and independent as well as team-working abilities
* Document and report writing skills; enthusiastic and forward thinking
* Willingness to learn and develop practice; ability to work with families under stress
Desirable
* Awareness of literature and legislation related to children and young people (e.g., safeguarding, Human Rights Act, UN Convention on the Rights of the Child)
* Clinical skills in developmental, therapeutic and specialised play
* Presentation/teaching and consultation skills with children, young people and families
Qualifications
Essential
* NVQ Level 3 in Childcare or equivalent (e.g. NNEB, BTEC Nursery Nurse)
Desirable
* Play work special needs; Level 2 safeguarding
Experience
Essential
* Previous childcare experience (e.g., nursery or school)
Desirable
* Experience of working in a hospital environment; working with children/young people in intensive settings, community work, home/school visits; teamwork; leadership; experience with different cultures
Other Information
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required. This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order). Further details at the employer site.
Employer
County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust
Darlington Memorial Hospital NHS Trust
Hollyhurst Road, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 6HX
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