Play Team Assistant
University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust · Hampshire
FULL-TIME
Posted Sep 13, 2026
Job Description
Job summary
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.
Job Title: Play Team Assistant
Contract Type: Permanent
Under current Home Office rules, this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
Please be advised that this vacancy may close earlier than stated if we receive a large number of applications
Main duties of the job
This is an exciting opportunity to join our team to support children, young people and their families during their hospital journey by delivering engaging play, recreation and developmental activities that promote wellbeing, recovery and resilience.
Working alongside our experienced Healthcare Play Specialists and multidisciplinary teams, you will help create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where children can play, learn and thrive. From supporting children to adjust to hospital life, to providing emotional support during difficult times, no two days are the same.
We're looking for someone who:
Has a passion for working with children and young people.Is creative, compassionate and enthusiastic.Enjoys building positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.Can adapt activities to meet a wide range of developmental and individual needs.Is committed to delivering outstanding child and family-centred care.
In return, you'll join a supportive and experienced team where your ideas and contributions are valued, with opportunities to develop your skills and make a genuine difference to the experiences of children and families within our Children's Hospital.
If you're ready to bring energy, creativity and compassion to a role where every day matters, we'd love to hear from you.
About us
As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to. UHS is rated 'Good' by the CQC and in the latest national NHS Staff Survey, we were in the top 10 acute trusts for staff engagement and for staff recommending the hospital as a place to work or receive care.
We support flexible working and will consider requests taking into account the needs of the service. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.
Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 30% lower than London and 17 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.
We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalising your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI-generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.
Details Date posted
10 September 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£25,760 to £27,476 a year
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Part-time
Reference number
188-CL030926
Job locations
University Hospital Southampton
Tremona Road
Southampton
SO16 6YD
United Kingdom
Job description Job responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Delivering and supervising age-appropriate play, recreational and developmental activities that support the emotional, social and developmental wellbeing of children and young people in hospital.Creating a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment while helping children, young people and families adapt to hospitalisation through play, recreation and emotional support.Working alongside Healthcare Play Specialists and the wider multidisciplinary team to contribute to assessments, care planning and the delivery of play-based interventions, including preparation and distraction techniques following training.Maintaining play resources and equipment, keeping accurate records, and supporting service improvement, audits and departmental initiatives to enhance the patient and family experience.
What experience/skills are needed:
CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education, NNEB qualification or equivalent childcare and understanding of child development from birth to 18 years, with a commitment to child and family-centred care.Ability to communicate effectively with children, young people and families, including those experiencing stress, anxiety or crisis.Experience of working effectively as part of a team, with strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
Additional Information:
Previous experience in an acute hospital setting would be advantageous but is not essential.The role requires the ability to safely move and handle children, patients and equipment in line with Trust policies and procedures.The successful applicant will be required to undertake safeguarding training and work in accordance with safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and clinical governance requirements.This post is subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and occupational health clearance.
Job description Job responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Delivering and supervising age-appropriate play, recreational and developmental activities that support the emotional, social and developmental wellbeing of children and young people in hospital.Creating a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment while helping children, young people and families adapt to hospitalisation through play, recreation and emotional support.Working alongside Healthcare Play Specialists and the wider multidisciplinary team to contribute to assessments, care planning and the delivery of play-based interventions, including preparation and distraction techniques following training.Maintaining play resources and equipment, keeping accurate records, and supporting service improvement, audits and departmental initiatives to enhance the patient and family experience.
What experience/skills are needed:
CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education, NNEB qualification or equivalent childcare and understanding of child development from birth to 18 years, with a commitment to child and family-centred care.Ability to communicate effectively with children, young people and families, including those experiencing stress, anxiety or crisis.Experience of working effectively as part of a team, with strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
Additional Information:
Previous experience in an acute hospital setting would be advantageous but is not essential.The role requires the ability to safely move and handle children, patients and equipment in line with Trust policies and procedures.The successful applicant will be required to undertake safeguarding training and work in accordance with safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and clinical governance requirements.This post is subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and occupational health clearance.
Person Specification Qualifications, knowledge and experience Essential
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education. NNEB up to Degree Level or equivalent
- Ability to move and handle patients and equipment.
- Demonstrates clarity and breadth in use of English language.
- Ability to communicate and work with parents and or families under stress and in crisis.
- Knowledge and understanding of child development up to the age of 18 years
- Experience of working effectively in a team.
- Commitment to patient/family-centred, non-discriminatory practice
Desirable
- Previous experience of an acute hospital care setting
Trust Values Essential
- Patient First
- Working Together
- Always Improving
Person Specification Qualifications, knowledge and experience Essential
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education. NNEB up to Degree Level or equivalent
- Ability to move and handle patients and equipment.
- Demonstrates clarity and breadth in use of English language.
- Ability to communicate and work with parents and or families under stress and in crisis.
- Knowledge and understanding of child development up to the age of 18 years
- Experience of working effectively in a team.
- Commitment to patient/family-centred, non-discriminatory practice
Desirable
- Previous experience of an acute hospital care setting
Trust Values Essential
- Patient First
- Working Together
- Always Improving
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.
Certificate of Sponsorship
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).
Additional information 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.
Certificate of Sponsorship
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).
Employer details Employer name
University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust
Address
University Hospital Southampton
Tremona Road
Southampton
SO16 6YD
United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.uhs.nhs.uk/home.aspx (Opens in a new tab)
Employer details Employer name
University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust
Address
University Hospital Southampton
Tremona Road
Southampton
SO16 6YD
United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.uhs.nhs.uk/home.aspx (Opens in a new tab)
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.
Job Title: Play Team Assistant
Contract Type: Permanent
Under current Home Office rules, this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
Please be advised that this vacancy may close earlier than stated if we receive a large number of applications
Main duties of the job
This is an exciting opportunity to join our team to support children, young people and their families during their hospital journey by delivering engaging play, recreation and developmental activities that promote wellbeing, recovery and resilience.
Working alongside our experienced Healthcare Play Specialists and multidisciplinary teams, you will help create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where children can play, learn and thrive. From supporting children to adjust to hospital life, to providing emotional support during difficult times, no two days are the same.
We're looking for someone who:
Has a passion for working with children and young people.Is creative, compassionate and enthusiastic.Enjoys building positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.Can adapt activities to meet a wide range of developmental and individual needs.Is committed to delivering outstanding child and family-centred care.
In return, you'll join a supportive and experienced team where your ideas and contributions are valued, with opportunities to develop your skills and make a genuine difference to the experiences of children and families within our Children's Hospital.
If you're ready to bring energy, creativity and compassion to a role where every day matters, we'd love to hear from you.
About us
As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to. UHS is rated 'Good' by the CQC and in the latest national NHS Staff Survey, we were in the top 10 acute trusts for staff engagement and for staff recommending the hospital as a place to work or receive care.
We support flexible working and will consider requests taking into account the needs of the service. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.
Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 30% lower than London and 17 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.
We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalising your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI-generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.
Details Date posted
10 September 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£25,760 to £27,476 a year
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Part-time
Reference number
188-CL030926
Job locations
University Hospital Southampton
Tremona Road
Southampton
SO16 6YD
United Kingdom
Job description Job responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Delivering and supervising age-appropriate play, recreational and developmental activities that support the emotional, social and developmental wellbeing of children and young people in hospital.Creating a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment while helping children, young people and families adapt to hospitalisation through play, recreation and emotional support.Working alongside Healthcare Play Specialists and the wider multidisciplinary team to contribute to assessments, care planning and the delivery of play-based interventions, including preparation and distraction techniques following training.Maintaining play resources and equipment, keeping accurate records, and supporting service improvement, audits and departmental initiatives to enhance the patient and family experience.
What experience/skills are needed:
CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education, NNEB qualification or equivalent childcare and understanding of child development from birth to 18 years, with a commitment to child and family-centred care.Ability to communicate effectively with children, young people and families, including those experiencing stress, anxiety or crisis.Experience of working effectively as part of a team, with strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
Additional Information:
Previous experience in an acute hospital setting would be advantageous but is not essential.The role requires the ability to safely move and handle children, patients and equipment in line with Trust policies and procedures.The successful applicant will be required to undertake safeguarding training and work in accordance with safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and clinical governance requirements.This post is subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and occupational health clearance.
Job description Job responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Delivering and supervising age-appropriate play, recreational and developmental activities that support the emotional, social and developmental wellbeing of children and young people in hospital.Creating a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment while helping children, young people and families adapt to hospitalisation through play, recreation and emotional support.Working alongside Healthcare Play Specialists and the wider multidisciplinary team to contribute to assessments, care planning and the delivery of play-based interventions, including preparation and distraction techniques following training.Maintaining play resources and equipment, keeping accurate records, and supporting service improvement, audits and departmental initiatives to enhance the patient and family experience.
What experience/skills are needed:
CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education, NNEB qualification or equivalent childcare and understanding of child development from birth to 18 years, with a commitment to child and family-centred care.Ability to communicate effectively with children, young people and families, including those experiencing stress, anxiety or crisis.Experience of working effectively as part of a team, with strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
Additional Information:
Previous experience in an acute hospital setting would be advantageous but is not essential.The role requires the ability to safely move and handle children, patients and equipment in line with Trust policies and procedures.The successful applicant will be required to undertake safeguarding training and work in accordance with safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and clinical governance requirements.This post is subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and occupational health clearance.
Person Specification Qualifications, knowledge and experience Essential
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education. NNEB up to Degree Level or equivalent
- Ability to move and handle patients and equipment.
- Demonstrates clarity and breadth in use of English language.
- Ability to communicate and work with parents and or families under stress and in crisis.
- Knowledge and understanding of child development up to the age of 18 years
- Experience of working effectively in a team.
- Commitment to patient/family-centred, non-discriminatory practice
Desirable
- Previous experience of an acute hospital care setting
Trust Values Essential
- Patient First
- Working Together
- Always Improving
Person Specification Qualifications, knowledge and experience Essential
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education. NNEB up to Degree Level or equivalent
- Ability to move and handle patients and equipment.
- Demonstrates clarity and breadth in use of English language.
- Ability to communicate and work with parents and or families under stress and in crisis.
- Knowledge and understanding of child development up to the age of 18 years
- Experience of working effectively in a team.
- Commitment to patient/family-centred, non-discriminatory practice
Desirable
- Previous experience of an acute hospital care setting
Trust Values Essential
- Patient First
- Working Together
- Always Improving
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.
Certificate of Sponsorship
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).
Additional information 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.
Certificate of Sponsorship
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).
Employer details Employer name
University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust
Address
University Hospital Southampton
Tremona Road
Southampton
SO16 6YD
United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.uhs.nhs.uk/home.aspx (Opens in a new tab)
Employer details Employer name
University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust
Address
University Hospital Southampton
Tremona Road
Southampton
SO16 6YD
United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.uhs.nhs.uk/home.aspx (Opens in a new tab)
Benefits
- Pension
Additional Details
- City
- Hampshire
- Country
- US
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