Lead Paediatric Play Specialist in ED

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust; Sutton Coldfield; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an experienced lead for the play team in the Emergency Department. You will plan and supervise play activities for children aged 0–16, and support families through hospital procedures, drawing on child development theory and play therapies.

The role requires a healthcare play foundation degree, professional body membership, and a track record in paediatric settings with CPD evidence.

Qualifications

• Foundation degree in healthcare play specialism.
• Membership of a professional body is required.
• Experience with children and hospital settings.
• CPD/continuous professional development evidence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the play team, ensuring shared standards and developing staff in practice.
• Co-ordinate planned play activities for children and young people aged 0 to 16, reviewing and developing services with the Paediatric lead.
• Maintain a safe, child-focused environment where play is encouraged for all children attending the Emergency Department
• Guide play support to meet the diverse needs of all children attending the hospital
• Choose play activities using knowledge of child development, considering psychological and emotional needs
• Deliver alternative play therapies for patients undergoing hospital procedures
• Work with the multidisciplinary team, carers and families to promote play during hospital attendance
• Document play interventions in line with Trust record keeping standards
• Report safeguarding and child protection concerns to the nurse in charge
• Seek feedback from patients and families on play services to promote a positive patient experience
• Act as a visible role model for professional behaviour and appearance
• Undertake delegated tasks set by the departmental manager, including health and safety responsibilities

Skills

Child development

Paediatric safeguarding

Code of conduct

Reflective practice

Empathy & communication

Professional development

Education

Foundation degree in healthcare play

Job description

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an experienced lead for the play team in the Emergency Department. You will plan and supervise play activities for children aged 0–16, and support families through hospital procedures, drawing on child development theory and play therapies.

The role requires a healthcare play foundation degree, professional body membership, and a track record in paediatric settings with CPD evidence.