Job summary
Kingfisher ward is a general paediatric ward which takes babies, children and young people from 0 -17 years with a variety of medical, surgical and psychological problems. There is a Paediatric assessment area managing admissions and promoting early discharge. We have 3 higher observation beds to support children requiring higher level care within the main ward.
The play team support children throughout the Trust in other acute departments and outpatients.
Main duties of the job
The paediatric play assistant has a vital role within the clinical multi-disciplinary team, working closely with the Play Specialist and nursing team we provide high quality care that meets the physical, psychological, emotional and social needs of the children and families we care for.
Play is an important part of child development; the play assistant will support children to learn and express their thoughts and emotions through play and provide activities that help keep children motivated in often challenging circumstances.
As a healthcare play assistant, you will provide fun, therapeutic, play opportunities for infants, children and young people who are receiving treatment within the hospital setting, these activities will need to be tailored to meet the individualised needs of each child. The play assistant must be able to communicate effectively with children of all ages; they must have the ability to identify safeguarding concerns and escalate these through appropriate channels to ensure children are protected.
The play assistant is responsible for maintaining a safe play environment, adhering to infection control procedures, maintaining the quality of toys and play equipment to ensure children and families can play safely within the hospital.
About us
At DCHFT, we pride ourselves on the care we provide for our patients, and on the culture, we are creating for our staff. We work hard to create a fair, inclusive environment for our staff.
Our Mission is to work in partnership to provide high quality, compassionate services and to nurture an environment where people can be at their best. Our vision is healthier lives, empowered citizens, thriving communities.
We are a Trust that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Our DCHFT Job Description and Person Specification (attached) tells you all about this role, what to expect and what is needed to succeed. When completing your application please make sure to tell us how your experience and skills fit the person specification.
Please contact us atRecruitment@dchft.nhs.ukif you are unable to view or download the attachment.
For all our roles, we are looking for staff who hold our Trust Values of Integrity, Respect Teamwork and Excellence, and who are passionate about providing the best patient care. To read more about our Trust and our Values search Dorset County Hospital online.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Our DCHFT Job Description and Person Specification (attached) tells you all about this role, what to expect and what is needed to succeed. When completing your application please make sure to tell us how your experience and skills fit the person specification.
Please contact us atRecruitment@dchft.nhs.ukif you are unable to view or download the attachment.
For all our roles, we are looking for staff who hold our Trust Values of Integrity, Respect Teamwork and Excellence, and who are passionate about providing the best patient care. To read more about our Trust and our Values search Dorset County Hospital online.
Person Specification
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
Essential
- NNEB / NVQ Level 3 in Child Care or equivalent
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Essential
- Recent post qualification experience working directly with children and young people
- Experience of working as an effective team member
- Experience of working with parents and extended families
Desirable
- Experience of working with children with special needs including those with challenging behaviours
- Experience working in a hospital setting
- Experience of working with neurodiverse children
SKILLS & ABILITIES
Essential
- Knowledge and understanding of child development
- A full understanding of and ability to provide distraction.
- Ability to work with individuals or groups of children
- Able to communicate effectively with patients and staff, in written, verbal and non-verbal forms.
- Understanding of confidentially and information governance
- Basic knowledge of safeguarding children policies and relevant, health legislation
- Good organisational skills
- Able to demonstrate awareness of health and safety and risk management in hospital play and recreation services.
Desirable
- Knowledge of technology such as gaming/ Computers/ VR
- Use of sign a long/ Makaton
- Use of creativity skills such as Arts & Crafts
Person Specification
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
Essential
- NNEB / NVQ Level 3 in Child Care or equivalent
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Essential
- Recent post qualification experience working directly with children and young people
- Experience of working as an effective team member
- Experience of working with parents and extended families
Desirable
- Experience of working with children with special needs including those with challenging behaviours
- Experience working in a hospital setting
- Experience of working with neurodiverse children
SKILLS & ABILITIES
Essential
- Knowledge and understanding of child development
- A full understanding of and ability to provide distraction.
- Ability to work with individuals or groups of children
- Able to communicate effectively with patients and staff, in written, verbal and non-verbal forms.
- Understanding of confidentially and information governance
- Basic knowledge of safeguarding children policies and relevant, health legislation
- Good organisational skills
- Able to demonstrate awareness of health and safety and risk management in hospital play and recreation services.
Desirable
- Knowledge of technology such as gaming/ Computers/ VR
- Use of sign a long/ Makaton
- Use of creativity skills such as Arts & Crafts
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
