Play Assistant - Kingfisher Ward

Job Summary

Kingfisher ward is a general paediatric ward taking babies, children and young people from 0 to 17 years with a variety of medical, surgical and psychological problems. The ward includes a Paediatric assessment area managing admissions and promoting early discharge. We have three higher observation beds to support children requiring higher level care within the main ward. The play team supports children throughout the Trust in other acute departments and outpatients.

The paediatric play assistant works within the clinical multidisciplinary team, closely with the Play Specialist and nursing team to provide high-quality care that meets the physical, psychological, emotional and social needs of the children and families we care for. Play is an important part of child development; the play assistant will support children to learn and express their thoughts and emotions through play and provide activities that keep children motivated in challenging circumstances.

You will provide fun, therapeutic play opportunities for infants, children and young people receiving treatment in the hospital setting. Activities should be tailored to meet the individual needs of each child. The play assistant must communicate effectively with children of all ages and have the ability to identify safeguarding concerns and escalate these through appropriate channels to protect children. The play assistant is responsible for maintaining a safe play environment, adhering to infection control procedures, and maintaining the quality of toys and play equipment to ensure safe play for children and families.

At Dorset County Hospital Foundation Trust (DCHFT), we pride ourselves on the care we provide and the culture we are creating for our staff. We aim to be fair and inclusive, fostering a diverse and welcoming environment for all employees. Our mission is to work in partnership to provide high-quality, compassionate services and to nurture an environment where people can be at their best.

Our vision is healthier lives, empowered citizens, thriving communities.

We welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups. We understand that some applicants may use AI tools to assist in preparing applications; submissions must truthfully reflect your own experiences and suitability for this role. Personal integrity and authenticity are central to our recruitment process.

This role is not available for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the UK. We are unable to support visa applications for this post in line with UKVI regulations.

Date posted: 14 January 2026

Pay scheme:
Agenda for Change

Band: 3

Salary: £24,937 to £26,598 per year (pro rata)

Contract:

Permanent

Working pattern:
Part-time

Reference number: 405-26-CS016KI
NG

Job locations:
Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, DT12JY

Essential qualifications, knowledge and experience:

• NNEB / NVQ Level 3 in Child Care or equivalent
• Recent post-qualification experience working directly with children and young people
• Experience as an effective team member
• Experience of working with parents and extended families

Desirable:

• Experience of working with children with special needs, including those with challenging behaviours
• Experience working in a hospital setting
• Experience of working with neurodiverse children
• Knowledge of technology such as gaming/computers/VR
• Use of sign language/Makaton
• Creative skills such as arts & crafts

Skills & Abilities (essential):

• Knowledge and understanding of child development
• Ability to provide distraction and engage individuals or groups of children
• Effective communication with patients and staff (written, verbal and non-verbal)
• Understanding of confidentiality and information governance
• Basic safeguarding knowledge and relevant health legislation
• Good organisational skills
• Awareness of health and safety and risk management in hospital play services

Disclosure:

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and will require a disclosure check.

Employer details:

Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, DT12JY

Employer's website: