Helping to undo the harm caused to children who have been affected by domestic abuse is a priority for us at Your Sanctuary and we are looking for an exceptional Play Worker to join our team.

Based at our refuges, you will assist our specialist support workers in the delivery of the Therapeutic Children’s Service by planning and providing a routine of play activities for children from birth to 5 years of age. You will also help parents to build their confidence and skills by modelling good play behaviour and encouraging their involvement.   Finding appropriate nursery places and supporting a smooth transition in and out of refuge are key elements of the job.

Making a real difference to children’s lives by helping them enjoy and learn through play, whilst increasing their self-esteem and addressing any early attachment difficulties present, you must have:

• experience of working with children of nursery and pre-school age who have been affected by trauma and/or who have emotional support needs

• knowledge and understanding of child development and safeguarding issues

• excellent communication skills and be kind, patient and approachable

• additional knowledge regarding adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and attachment theory would be beneficial.

We offer 25 days annual leave per annum plus Public Holidays (pro rata for part time posts), a contributory pension scheme and an employee assistance programme along with high quality training and development.  There is some flexibility over the start time but you must be available to work until at least 5pm.

Applicants must have a full driving licence and access to a reliable car and be available for occasional emergency on-call and out of hours helpline shifts on a rota basis (at additional pay).  We welcome applications from Black and minoritised candidates.

Your Sanctuary is fully committed to the safeguarding and protection of children and young people and our recruitment practices will reflect this.  Successful applicants will be required to undergo a full referencing and DBS process before any offer of employment is confirmed.  More information can be provided upon request.

Closing date:  Tuesday 2nd April 2024 although please note that applications will be reviewed upon receipt so the post could be offered at an earlier date.

A full job description is below.  To apply, send your CV and a covering letter to admin@yoursanctuary.org.uk.  In your covering letter please include a paragraph on how your skills, experience and/or knowledge enable you to meet the requirements set out in the person specification for this post.   

No agencies please.

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*Please note that because of the nature of this post it is only open to female applicants and is exempt under Schedule 9 (Part 1) of the Equality Act 2010.