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Play WorkerinLondoninLondonPUBLISHED WED 30 OCT 2024

Band 3: £29,485 to £31,088 a year per annum inclusive  FIXEDTERM 
HOLISTICNHSWEEKEND

Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation TrustFollow Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust

Opportunity to make a significant impact on the wellbeing of children and young people in a hospital environment.
Engagement in creative and meaningful play activities that enhance patient experiences and promote emotional healing.
Work within a dynamic and supportive team, fostering collaboration and the sharing of ideas and best practices.
Flexibility in work hours allows for a balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.
Access to a diverse range of children and families, contributing to cultural competence and inclusivity in play activities.
Development of skills in planning and facilitating tailored play sessions, enhancing professional growth and expertise in child development.
Contribution to a safe and nurturing hospital environment, creating lasting memories and positive experiences for patients and their families.
The role of Play Worker at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust involves supporting the hospital's Play Team by providing enriching play experiences for children, young people, and their families. This position is crucial for enhancing the hospital experience, as it focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing through creative play opportunities, catering to the diverse needs of patients, including inpatients and their siblings. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, and facilitating play sessions during various times, such as evenings and weekends, creating a safe and nurturing environment, and collaborating with other staff members and the Young People's Forum.

The Play Worker will also manage play resources according to infection control policies, maintain activity data, and adapt sessions to meet individual needs. Flexibility in scheduling is required, with potential working hours that may include evenings and weekends. Overall, the role emphasises the importance of play in the healing process and ensures that all children and young people have meaningful access to play while in the hospital.
Opportunity to make a significant impact on the wellbeing of children and young people in a hospital environment.
Engagement in creative and meaningful play activities that enhance patient experiences and promote emotional healing.
Work within a dynamic and supportive team, fostering collaboration and the sharing of ideas and best practices.
Flexibility in work hours allows for a balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.
Access to a diverse range of children and families, contributing to cultural competence and inclusivity in play activities.
Development of skills in planning and facilitating tailored play sessions, enhancing professional growth and expertise in child development.
Contribution to a safe and nurturing hospital environment, creating lasting memories and positive experiences for patients and their families.

More about the NHS
The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of healthcare in the United Kingdom, established in 1948 with the simple yet profound principle of providing healthcare to all citizens, free at the point of use. This revolutionary system aimed to ensure that access to medical services would not depend on an individual’s financial situation, a concept that has since become fundamental to British societal values.Learn more...
Useful skills for a Play Worker:
To work as a Play Worker in the UK, there are several key skills and qualifications that are generally required or beneficial for the role:
1. Understanding of Child Development: Knowledge of the stages of child development and the importance of play in learning is crucial. This includes understanding physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development.
2. Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with children, parents, and colleagues. This includes listening to children, encouraging them, and explaining activities clearly.
3. Creativity and Imagination: Being able to plan and lead engaging activities that foster children's creativity and encourage imaginative play.
4. Organizational Skills: Planning and organizing play activities, as well as managing time effectively to ensure a safe and structured environment.
5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Ability to adapt to the needs and interests of different children and to be flexible in response to changing situations.
6. Teamwork: Working collaboratively with other staff members and professionals to create a supportive environment for children.
7. Patience and Empathy: Understanding and being sensitive to the needs and feelings of children, and having the patience to deal with challenging behaviors.
8. Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to handle conflicts, challenges, and unexpected situations that may arise during play.
9. Knowledge of Safeguarding Procedures: Understanding the policies and procedures in place to protect children’s welfare and safety.
10. Health and Safety Awareness: Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations and how to create a safe play environment.
11. First Aid Certification: Having a basic first aid qualification is often a requirement or a highly desirable skill in many roles involving children.
Qualifications:
While formal educational qualifications may not always be mandatory, many employers prefer candidates with specific qualifications, such as:
- NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Playwork: These qualifications provide essential skills and knowledge needed in the field.
- Child Care qualifications: Such as a Level 2 or 3 diploma in Child Care and Education or similar.
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Playwork: A recognized qualification that covers the principles and foundations of playwork.
Experience:
Having practical experience working with children in various settings (such as schools, nurseries, or community centers) can also be very beneficial. Volunteering or internships can provide valuable exposure.
 


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