Job summary
Macarthur ward are recruiting for the position of Activity worker on Hetah Lane Hospital. The successful applicants will work as part of the multidisciplinary team, assisting in the development and delivery of therapeutic activities within an adult inpatient services. The post holder will be required to work flexibly across a 7 day period.

Main duties of the job

• The post holder will focus on planning and facilitating a varied activity program that aims to suit the needs of the patient and enhanced the provision of ward-based meaningful activity.
• To work effectively as a member of the team in providing a program of ward based therapeutic activities ,that are flexible according to the changing needs of patients.
• Utilise creative skills to engage patients in therapeutic activities that promote independence and wellbeing.
• To give effective verbal and written reports on patients progress and providing information in respect of mental state and risk factors.
• To report and escalate any concerns regarding patient risks and safeguarding to the relevant senior professional.
• To ensure that patients retain their dignity, choice and individually.
• To coordinate activities such as creative arts, cooking groups, physical exercise groups, and patient forum groups on the ward.
• To collaborate with the ward psychologist to support in delivering groups such as mindfulness, and wellness activity action plans.
• To be able respond appropriately to challenging situations and support in the management of the patients needs, when required.

About us
The Team is committed to provide safe, sound and supportive services; you will receive regular supervision with opportunities to develop clinical and professional practice in line with service user needs and organisational values.

As a trust we are committed to ensuring staff members wellbeing, providing access to various networks, trust wide mindfulness groups and staff counselling. In addition to this you will have access to the car lease schemes and other benefits.

Job responsibilities
To support the clinical team in providing a meaningful and therapeutic day for the patient group by providing diversional activities, support and practical assistance with or without the direct supervision of qualified staff. To establish and maintain a rapport with the patients, carers, relatives and visitors and to contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere.The post holder will organise and plan recreational activities for the patients to cover a 7 day programme.

You must be a team player and willing to go the extra mile for our patient care. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

• Compassion
• Understanding
• Commitment
• Enthusiasm
• Be highly motivated
• Delivering high quality care
• Have a positive attitude

We are looking for people who can bring commitment, reliability, enthusiasm and determination to take forward our service in new and innovative ways. In return we offer training and development of staff, support through regular Supervision and Appraisal, assisting you in setting realistic objectives.

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a team where patient care is always at the forefront. As part of the team you will be supported and encouraged to develop your skills whilst working for an organisation that values their staff.

To support the clinical team in providing a meaningful and therapeutic day for the patient group by providing diversional activities, support and practical assistance with or without the direct supervision of qualified staff. To establish and maintain a rapport with the patients, carers, relatives and visitors and to contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

Person Specification
Essential

• Experience of working with older adults with a mental illness
• Relevant qualifications or training in activity worker roles

Desirable

• Desire to develop skills to enhance knowledge and expertise of older adults with a mental illness
• A keen interest to utilise current skills and qualifications to carry out role as activity coordinator

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.

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.

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.