Hospital Play Specialist

Job summary

The Hospital Play Specialist (HPS) supports the delivery of high-quality, child-centred care by providing therapeutic, developmental, and recreational play interventions for children, young people, and their families within the clinical environment. The play specialist will use play to reduce anxiety, support coping, and promote emotional wellbeing during hospital stays, procedures, and treatments.

Main duties of the job

The Hospital Play Specialist (Band 4) provides therapeutic, developmental and recreational play to support the emotional wellbeing of babies, children and young people during their hospital experience. The role involves helping children cope with anxiety, procedures and treatments by using age-appropriate preparation techniques, distraction methods and play-based coping strategies. A key focus of the post is supporting the Childrens Asthma Nurse in helping children undergo respiratory diagnostic tests, including FeNO and spirometry, at the Community Diagnostics Centre. The Play Specialist assesses the needs of children attending for these tests, offers tailored therapeutic play, and ensures they feel safe and informed throughout their visit. The role also includes creating and maintaining safe, clean and developmentally appropriate play environments that promote normalisation and positive experiences during hospital stays. The Play Specialist works closely with the multidisciplinary team to plan for challenging or invasive procedures and to promote a consistent, supportive approach to care. They support siblings visiting the hospital, help children understand their medical conditions through various play interventions, and contribute to developing care plans by keeping accurate, confidential and comprehensive records in accordance with Trust policies.

About us

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is proud to care for the communities of West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wave; a national programme thats changing how care is delivered by focusing on prevention, early support, and more joined-up services across health, social care, and the voluntary sector. This means were working more closely with local partners to bring care closer to home and support people to live healthier, more independent lives. Were a supportive and inclusive organisation that values its people. We offer development opportunities, flexible working, and a strong focus on wellbeing. As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Join us and help shape the future of care in West Essex.

Employer details

Employer name

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust

Address

The Princess Alexandra Hospital

Harlow

Essex

CM20 1QX

Employer's website

https://www.pah.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)

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Employer details

Employer name

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust

Address

The Princess Alexandra Hospital

Harlow

Essex

CM20 1QX

Employer's website

https://www.pah.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)

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