What does a community play specialist do?

The community play specialist utilises various forms of play to assist children and young people in expressing themselves and understanding their experiences in ways that suit their needs.

This role is filled by a registered hospital play specialist who works within the Community Children’s Nursing Service.

Who can the community play specialist help

Referrals are accepted for any child currently under the care of a Community Children’s Nursing team, who is experiencing challenges in coping with medical procedures or treatments, which may result in behavioural changes, regression, anxiety, or fear.

Support is also available for parents and carers seeking guidance on providing suitable toys and activities for children facing these issues.

They can also take referrals for children on the end of life caseload and so those with other changing play needs due to illness.

Where can play sessions take place?

They will be offered in either in the child’s home, community setting or school.

What can the community play specialist provide?

Sessions are available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays for 30 to 60 minutes.

Sessions may include non-directed play, during which the community play specialist provides a curated selection of toys and activities designed to facilitate narrative, creative, and energy-releasing therapeutic play.

The community play specialist supports the child in leading the session, allowing them autonomy in selecting both activities and modes of play. Such approaches enable children to process emotions, manage current experiences, and understand past events.

Or

Informative sessions are organised in which the community play specialist conducts activities to assess a child’s needs or to trial alternative activities. When suitable, these sessions may also be provided to prepare children for medical interventions or procedures.

The community play specialist communicates with parents, carers, and if needed nurses or health play specialists (with consent) to address family needs and ensure continuity of care.

Who can refer the child to the service?

Referrals can be accepted from hospital play specialists, nursing staff, medical staff, therapists, social workers and families who have a child on the community children’s nursing team caseload.