Health Playworker | University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust; Bristol; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Bristol seeks a Play Specialist to provide an inclusive play service in a pediatric environment. Responsibilities include maintaining a stimulating play environment and providing distraction during medical procedures. Applicants must possess a level 3 play qualification and have 2 years of relevant experience. The role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in children's lives during their hospital stay.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of work experience in a relevant field.
• Strong ability to create engaging play environments for children.

Responsibilities

• Create a stimulating environment for children to play.
• Organise bedside activities encouraging engagement.
• Provide play distraction during medical procedures.
• Maintain a safe environment following health and safety policies.

Skills

Inclusive play service

Child development knowledge

Activity organisation

Education

Level 3 play qualification or equivalent

Job description

The post holder will be a member of the play department, providing an inclusive play service within the activity centre and throughout the hospital.

To work within the structure of the play department, referring to the health play specialist, team leads, or the play service manager when necessary.

The post holder will be assigned to a specific area but may be required to work in other areas as needed.

The post holder must hold a level 3 play qualification or equivalent, with 2 years of work experience.

Main Responsibilities:

1. Create an interesting, stimulating, and fun environment where children and their siblings can play normally to meet their emotional, social, and developmental needs.
2. Organise activities at the bedside or within play areas that encourage engagement from children and young people.
3. Utilise knowledge of child development to select appropriate play and recreational activities supporting the child's or young person's level of development through normalising and developmental play.
4. Provide play distraction before, during, and after medical procedures, following the play team referral process and under supervision.
5. Maintain a clean and safe child-focused environment, adhering to trust health and safety policies, including ongoing risk assessments.

Be responsible for the safety and wellbeing of patients in your care, escalating medical or social concerns as appropriate.

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) is a large acute Trust with over 13,000 staff across 10 sites, serving a population of over 500,000 in South West England. UHBW is rated 'Good' by the CQC and is committed to excellence in patient care, innovation, and research. Our hospitals are located in Bristol and Weston, offering a mix of city, seaside, and countryside living. We are dedicated to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and promoting diversity in our workforce. Applications will be assessed anonymously to ensure fairness.

Please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification for detailed information on duties and responsibilities.

This advert closes on Sunday, 10 August 2025.