Paediatric: Play and Support volunteer role

Paediatric Unit Volunteer (ages 0-11)

Brief description of the role

As a Paediatric Unit Volunteer you will play and support children aged 0-11 whilst in hospital. The children on the ward can be resident for several days and there may be periods where the child is on their own.

The Paediatric Unit volunteer will spend time with the child playing with and supporting them, including offering comfort if required. The volunteer will also help the child with their daily needs; helping them to choose meals at mealtimes and topping up their jugs of water/juice. They will ensure the patient has access to age-appropriate toys and activities and will spend time with the child in the play room when appropriate.

Volunteers will provide companionship to patients up to the age of 11, some of whom may be in hospital for a long period of time. We are looking for volunteers who are kind, good listeners, non-judgmental and able to play and organise appropriate activities for children aged 0-11.

The volunteer will have direct patient contact with parents and patients of all ages, a range of cultural and spiritual backgrounds and complex health needs.

Key Tasks

• Welcome parents and children to the ward
• To assist the child with refreshments and food (not feeding)
• To offer comfort and support to the child when needed and escalate any concerns to the nursing staff
• Ensure the child has age-appropriate activities and toys
• To support the child spending time in the play room when possible
• To clean toys when they are finished, ready for the next child

For the full document which includes training requirements please download the attached PDF