Paediatric ED Play Specialist | Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust; Manchester; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A health services organization in Manchester is looking for a Health Play Specialist to deliver play therapy in the Paediatric Emergency Department. This permanent role involves collaborating with various health professionals to enhance patient experience. The ideal candidate will have a Foundation Degree or Level 4 qualification and should hold up-to-date registration with the Health Play Specialist Education Trust. Shift hours may vary, reflecting departmental needs.

Qualifications

• Foundation Degree in Healthcare Play Specialism or Level 4 qualification required.
• Up-to-date registration with the Health Play Specialist Education Trust is necessary.
• Students qualifying in 2025 may apply.

Responsibilities

• Deliver play therapy techniques to improve patient experience.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
• Organise and participate in public health initiatives.

Skills

Play therapy techniques

Team collaboration

Electronic documentation

Education

Foundation Degree in Healthcare Play Specialism or Level 4 qualification

Registration with the Health Play Specialist Education Trust

Job description

Overview

A Health Play Specialist will work within the Therapeutic and Specialised Play Service at Paediatric Emergency Department, North Manchester General Hospital. The role is a permanent contract with shift hours that may change according to the department or ward. Example shift times: earliest 10:00‑18:00, latest 13:00‑21:00.

Responsibilities

• Deliver play therapy techniques including procedural preparation, distraction/diversional therapy and developmental play to improve patient journey and experience.
• Work individually and as part of a multidisciplinary team including medical, clinical, allied health, youth service, specialist nurses and focus support team.
• Complete thorough electronic documentation in patient notes and attend relevant meetings.
• Organise and participate in patient experience agendas, events and public health initiatives.

Qualifications

• Foundation Degree in Healthcare Play Specialism or Level 4 qualification.
• Up‑to‑date registration with the Health Play Specialist Education Trust.
• Students due to qualify in 2025 may apply.

Working Hours

Shift hours may change to reflect the department or ward you are linked to. Example shift times: earliest 10:00‑18:00, latest 13:00‑21:00.

Diversity

All individuals regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation are encouraged to apply. The Trust is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and eliminating unlawful discrimination.

Application

This advert closes on Wednesday 22 Oct 2025.