Job summary
We are seeking to appoint a dynamic and enthusiastic candidate to the role of Health Play Specialist within our Acute Play Services team, part of our Babies, Children’s, & Young People Division.
This role is based at our North Middlesex University Health Unit and is offered at full time, working Monday – Friday working on our Play Services roster, and this role will include some weekend working.
The postholder will work across all areas of the health unit, including but not limited to, our:
- T2 Rainbow Ward
- Paediatric Assessment Unit
- Ocean Day Unit
- Children’s Outpatient Department
- Child & Adolescent Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Liaison Team
Main duties of the job
To provide and participate in the design and delivery of play/recreation activities for all children and young people attending the Trust from birth up to the age of eighteen, in accordance with their medical condition, cultural and individual needs.
To liaise with the senior play specialist and other members of the multidisciplinary team to enhance the emotional wellbeing of the child or young person and their families throughout their hospital stay To provide play and use distraction techniques for children attending areas of the hospital outside the Women and Children directorate. Help families to celebrate key events & milestones. Be part of a friendly, thriving team of play specialists, play workers & volunteers. Children’s health & wellbeing is at our core & your contribution will make a real impact within a team who value play.
Person Specification
Education and Professional Qualifications
Essential
- Registered qualified Hospital Play Specialist holding the Foundation degree in Healthcare Play Specialism or Edexcel
Desirable
- Membership of SoHPS Professional Body
Royal Free World Class Values
Essential
- Demonstrable ability to meet the Trust Values
Experience
Essential
- Experience of working with babies, children and young people in healthcare or paediatric setting
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to use therapeutic play techniques to prepare and support children undergoing investigations, treatments, and procedures.
- Ability to support children with additional needs, learning disabilities, or complex health conditions.
- Knowledge of child development and the emotional, psychological, and social needs of children and young people.
Skills and Aptitudes
Essential
- A full understanding and ability to apply preparation, distraction therapy and post procedure play skills
- Basic knowledge of safeguarding policies and relevant health legislation
- Ability to communicate effectively with patients/families and staff
- Good organisational, time management, IT and record-keeping skills
Desirable
- Knowledge of HPS, professional code of conduct and its application in practice
Personal Qualities and Attributes
Essential
- Enthusiastic and motivated.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Professional approach to work.
- Accountability – Takes responsibility for own actions and promotes good team working.
- Openness – Shares information and good practice appropriately.
- Mutual respect – Treats others with courtesy and respect.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
Closing Date: 20 October 2026
