Recreation Worker(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role Overview

Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a creative, proactive and compassionate Recreation Worker to join the newly established team at Kingfisher House, a male Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). This role is ideal for someone with enthusiasm for person-centred care and a passion for supporting individuals through therapeutic and recreational activities.

Working alongside the Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistant and the wider multidisciplinary team (MDT), you will contribute to the design, delivery and evaluation of a meaningful activity programme that supports recovery, promotes autonomy and enhances quality of life during admission.

Key Responsibilities

Therapeutic & Recreational Support

• Assist in planning, organising and facilitating a variety of group and one-to-one therapeutic and leisure activities
• Encourage individuals to take part in sessions, supporting motivation, confidence and sustained engagement
• Adapt activities to meet diverse needs, ensuring dignity, respect and personal choice

Promoting Recovery & Social Inclusion

• Build positive, professional relationships that empower service users to develop social networks
• Support individuals in developing independence, self-expression and meaningful routines
• Assist in delivering components of recovery and psycho-education programmes

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Work closely with OT, OTA, sensory staff and other MDT colleagues
• Contribute to multidisciplinary discussions and care planning
• Communicate effectively with service users, carers and staff at all levels

Record-Keeping & Administration

• Maintain accurate written notes and activity records in line with Trust standards
• Participate in gathering statistics, creating activity timetables and producing information materials
• Report changes in occupational functioning and escalate concerns appropriately

Safety, Governance & Professional Practice

• Follow Trust policies, safeguarding procedures and legislative requirements, including the Mental Health Act
• Assist in environmental risk assessments and incident reporting
• Uphold confidentiality, equality and anti-discriminatory practice in line with the Equality Act 2010
• Maintain personal development through supervision, reflective practice and statutory training

Working Pattern & Environment

• You will be required to work flexibly across weekdays, evenings and weekends
• Activities may take place on the ward, in therapy spaces or within wider hospital grounds
• The role involves light physical activity including walking, setting up equipment and supporting group sessions
• You will adapt to the fast-paced nature of an acute inpatient service, responding to changing needs

Visa & Sponsorship Information

As a licensed sponsor, the Trust must adhere to Home Office regulations. Due to the Skilled Worker Visa minimum salary threshold  it is unlikely that sponsorship can be provided for this role unless the applicant meets the criteria outlined by UK Visas and Immigration

About Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Joining Team Derbyshire Healthcare means being part of a compassionate, skilled workforce committed to “making a positive difference in people’s lives.” The Trust is rated GOOD by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for delivering kind, safe and effective care

Employee Benefits

• Competitive annual leave entitlement (27–33 days depending on length of service)
• NHS Pension Scheme
• Flexible working options where possible
• Health and wellbeing initiatives
• Staff support networks
• Access to development and training opportunities
• Employee assistance and discounts scheme

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience of working in a care environment
• Experience within a mental health setting
• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels, including clear written English
• Understanding of personal limitations and willingness to seek support
• Ability to motivate and support people in group and individual activities
• Effective time-management and teamwork skills

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience working with individuals with learning disabilities
• Experience managing or responding to behaviours that challenge
• Food hygiene or customer-service training
• Confidence working independently when required

Employer Information

• Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
  Kingfisher House
  Kingsway Hospital Site
  Derby
  DE22 3LZ