Play Assistant - Peterborough | North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust

North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Cambridgeshire is seeking a motivated Play Assistant to deliver child-focused play for children aged 0-17. Responsibilities include maintaining play areas and supporting young people in various departments. Ideal candidates will hold a Level 3 childcare qualification and have a strong understanding of child development. The role offers a chance to make a positive impact in a hospital environment.

Benefits

Employee support benefits

Diversity and inclusion focus

Qualifications

• Hold a Level 3 childcare qualification.
• A strong understanding of child development and the emotional needs of children in a hospital setting.
• Motivated and enthusiastic approach to providing play and support to young people.

Responsibilities

• Deliver child-focused play and activities for residents on Amazon Ward.
• Provide play, distraction and preparation support to Children’s Outpatients and Paediatric Assessment Unit.
• Maintain play areas, ensuring activities are developmental and age appropriate.

Skills

Understanding of child development

Motivated and enthusiastic approach

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification

Job description

Overview

The Play Team at North West Anglia Trust is expanding and recent developments have led to a stronger focus on providing play as an integral part of care across two sites. Our service supports children and young people from 0‑17 years with targeted interventions, contributing to their holistic care and experience. We aim to showcase the importance of play to the multidisciplinary team, working towards a healthy recovery for the child and young person.

Role Summary

As a Play Assistant within our Trust, you will be motivated and enthusiastic in providing child‑focused play with an awareness of child development and the emotional needs of a child in hospital.

Responsibilities

• Deliver child‑focused play and activities for residents on Amazon Ward, a 30‑bedded children ward.
• Provide play, distraction and preparation support to Children’s Outpatients, Paediatric Assessment Unit and a day‑case area.
• Maintain play areas, ensuring activities and resources are developmental and age appropriate.
• Deliver play services across the Trust on a 3‑month rotation at Peterborough or Hinchingbrooke, covering 7 days a week.

Requirements

• Hold a Level 3 childcare qualification.
• A strong understanding of child development and the emotional needs of children in a hospital setting.
• Motivated and enthusiastic approach to providing play and support to young people.

Additional Information

If you are an overseas candidate who requires sponsorship, you can assess your likelihood of obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship for this post by reviewing the criteria on the gov.uk website.

We reserve the right to close this advert earlier than the closing date indicated should we feel we have received sufficient applications.

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in our workforce and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, with a special focus on welcoming individuals from disabled, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities, as well as those from our local area.

Benefits

In line with our dedication to employee support, we offer a variety of benefits. For more information, please see the attached staff benefits leaflet.

Closing Date

This advert closes on Monday 27 Oct 2025.