Job Description

Newhaven Community Ward provides rehabilitation-focused care for patients recovering from illness, injury or surgery. We are looking for an enthusiastic, creative and organised Activities Coordinator to support patients in regaining confidence, independence and wellbeing during their rehabilitation journey.



In this role, you will plan and deliver a programme of meaningful, person-centred activities that complement individual therapy goals. Working closely with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nursing staff and families, you will help enhance the patient experience and contribute to a positive, supportive and stimulating ward environment.



Plan, organise and deliver a daily schedule of therapeutic, social, cognitive and creative activities that support rehabilitation goals.



Provide one-to-one and group-based sessions tailored to individual needs, abilities and interests.



Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to ensure activities align with therapy plans and promote independence.



Encourage patient participation, motivation and confidence, especially for those who may be anxious, withdrawn or experiencing reduced mobility.



Support activities that promote daily living skills, mobility, orientation and community re-engagement.



Monitor patient engagement and provide feedback to clinical staff to support ongoing care planning.



Help create a positive, inclusive and stimulating ward atmosphere that enhances emotional wellbeing and reduces isolation.



Maintain activity resources, ensure safe use of equipment, and follow all ward safety and infection control procedures.



Assist with organising seasonal events, themed sessions, ward-based celebrations and family-inclusive activities.



Contribute to patient-centred care by upholding dignity, respect, and the Trust's values at all times.



Working for our organisation



At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We're proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.



Candidate Pack

Please note:

This role does not meet the minimum criteria for visa sponsorship under the current UK immigration rules, which set specific salary and skill thresholds. As such, we are unable to provide sponsorship for this post. Applicants will therefore need to already have the right to work in the UK to be considered. We include this information at the outset to provide clarity and avoid unnecessary inconvenience for applicants.



If you are applying using a Graduate visa as your right to work, you must have a minimum of 18 months remaining on your visa at time of application.



Newhaven Community Ward provides rehabilitation-focused inpatient care for adults recovering from acute illness, injury, surgery or complex health conditions. Our aim is to support patients in regaining independence and confidence in preparation for a safe and timely return home or onward community placement.



The Activities Coordinator plays a vital role in enhancing patients' physical, emotional and social wellbeing through a structured programme of meaningful, therapeutic and recreational activities. Working as part of the wider multidisciplinary team, you will design and deliver activities that complement clinical rehabilitation plans, encourage engagement, and improve quality of life.



You will work closely with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nursing staff, support workers, patients and families to ensure each activity is appropriate, person-centred and tailored to individual needs and goals. Activities may include gentle physical exercise, cognitive stimulation, social interaction, crafts, reminiscence, orientation support, music, games, outdoor activities, and daily living-focused tasks designed to promote independence.



This role requires a compassionate, proactive and creative individual who can use strong communication skills to build rapport with patients who may have reduced mobility, cognitive impairment, low motivation or long-term conditions. You will be a key contributor to creating a positive and stimulating ward environment, reducing isolation and promoting a sense of purpose, routine and achievement for patients throughout their stay.

Main Responsibilities

Activity Planning and Delivery



Develop, implement and maintain a structured weekly timetable of activities aligned to rehabilitation goals.



Lead one-to-one and group sessions that promote mobility, independence, cognition, social interaction and emotional wellbeing.



Adapt activities to ensure inclusivity for patients with varying physical, cognitive or sensory needs.



Support therapeutic goals set by physiotherapists and occupational therapists through mobility exercises, ADL-focused tasks, orientation prompts, and other functional activities.



Use creativity to design sessions that are enjoyable, engaging and meaningful for patients.



Patient Support and Engagement



Build positive relationships with patients and motivate participation, particularly for individuals who may be withdrawn, anxious or low in confidence.



Provide reassurance, encouragement and emotional support to help patients engage with their rehabilitation programmes.



Monitor patient responses, preferences and abilities to ensure activities remain suitable and therapeutic.



Contribute to individualised care plans by providing feedback and observations to the clinical team.



Collaboration and Communication



Work closely with therapists, nurses and healthcare support workers to ensure activities complement clinical interventions.



Attend MDT discussions where appropriate and provide updates on patient engagement and progress.



Maintain professional communication with families, carers and volunteers to support patient-centred care.



Act as a positive ambassador for meaningful activity as an essential part of rehabilitation.



Ward Environment and Resources



Maintain and organise activity materials, ensuring they are safe, clean and accessible.



Create displays, noticeboards and themed events that enhance the ward environment.



Support seasonal celebrations, community links, outings or virtual events as appropriate.



Contribute to maintaining a calm, inclusive and stimulating atmosphere on the ward.



Documentation and Governance



Keep accurate records of activity participation and patient engagement in accordance with Trust policies.



Report any concerns regarding patient wellbeing, safety or safeguarding promptly to senior staff.



Follow all infection prevention procedures, moving and handling guidelines, and health and safety policies.



Ensure activities are risk assessed and delivered safely at all times.



Professional Conduct



Uphold the Trust's values and commitment to compassionate, high-quality patient care.



Participate in training, supervision and development opportunities to maintain skills and enhance practice.



Maintain confidentiality and promote dignity and respect for every patient.