Health Play Specialist

The Health Play Specialist, (HPS) is a qualified & registered professional with expert knowledge and experience of play with the well child and with the sick child/young person. She/he is a fully integrated member of the Health Professionals Team. The Play Specialist will work within the Play Service and ward/department team but also she/he will work independently using their own initiative, organisation, leadership and time management. The HPS will provide developmental, therapeutic and specialised play techniques for all ages and diversities in an effort to fulfil emotional, social and developmental needs and help alleviate emotional trauma related to hospital. The HPS will help to bridge the gap between hospital and home, creating a positive environment and a positive patient journey. The HPS will provide interesting and stimulating play programmes for children and young people. The HPS will highlight the importance of play in assisting recovery and aiding development to all health professionals and students. The HPS will ensure accurate documentation of play therapy interventions carried out with the patient in a timely manner. As a member of the play service the HPS will be responsible for the promotion of the play service within the trust. The HPS will demonstrate & promote the values of Alder Hey NHS Foundation Trust.