In this section
“I am the play specialist on the Children’s Ward at Scarborough Hospital. I have worked for the Trust for nearly 29 years. When I had completed my nursery nurse training I worked in a school for a while but wanted something more challenging. I saw this post advertised and applied because it was something completely different and it would provide the opportunity to use my skills to the full potential.
“The prospect of providing play to poorly children, making their stay in hospital a happier one, was something I felt was not only highly important but very rewarding. At the time I didn’t realise how much I would love the job, it has turned out to be my life and I love it every day. My role has progressed so much over the years and I feel valued.
“At the moment I just love helping children who have to have MRI scans and other procedures, we do this through play and distraction rather than sedation or anaesthetic. This is so rewarding. I prepare the child and make it fun. We use props and pretend we are having a scan in the playroom. I go with the child through their journey to MRI. The feeling is so amazing when the scan is successful. I also enjoy working with all the families making them feel comfortable and happy.
“The Trust is a big part of my life and I feel privileged to work here. This job has enabled me to work with a fantastic team on the Children’s ward. There are not many jobs where you look forward to coming to work but I can honestly say that I do.
“The biggest change I have seen over the years is the transformation from the old NHS to working within this Trust. At the beginning it was a totally different way of working but change is good and through this I feel my role has progressed and is recognised as being an important part of daily life on the ward.”
30 April 2018
