At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and deliver engaging activities to support patients' wellbeing and recovery.
- Company: Join Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in mental health services.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 27 days annual leave, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with support for personal growth and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives through creativity and connection.
- Qualifications: GCSE Grade C in English and knowledge of group activities.
The predicted salary is between 25760 - 27476 £ per year.
Do you enjoy bringing people together, encouraging participation, and using creativity to make a positive difference? We are looking for a friendly, creative and empathetic Activity Co-ordinator to join Daisy Ward, our single-sex male acute inpatient mental health ward in Reading. In this rewarding role, you will plan and deliver a range of individual and group activities that support patients' wellbeing and recovery. Activities may include arts and crafts, music, games, gentle exercise, relaxation sessions and themed events. You'll also have the opportunity to introduce your own ideas and help create meaningful experiences that encourage confidence, independence and social connection.
This is a people-focused, activity-led role rather than a Healthcare Support Worker position. You'll work closely with patients and the multidisciplinary team to promote engagement and support recovery. Experience in a mental health or care setting is desirable, but we'd also welcome applicants with backgrounds in community work, youth engagement, hospitality, leisure, events, or the arts who enjoy motivating and engaging others.
The service operates seven days a week, and you'll work alongside another Activity Co-ordinator, sharing a rota that includes weekends and occasional late shifts. We offer a supportive team environment with excellent opportunities for learning, development and career progression.
- Maintain an awareness of current issues affecting people experiencing mental health difficulties, ensuring activities are appropriate and supportive of patients’ wellbeing.
- Plan & lead a range of recreational activities that meet the needs & interests of patients, in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team.
- Build positive, supportive relationships with patients & carers, encouraging engagement & participation in activities.
- Observe & monitor patients’ wellbeing during activities & social interactions, recognising changes in mood or behaviour & responding appropriately.
- Adapt activities to meet individual needs, using a calm & supportive approach that helps maintain a safe & positive environment.
- Provide verbal & written feedback to members of the multidisciplinary team regarding patient engagement & progress during activities.
- Record & document activity sessions within patient care records in line with service requirements.
- Carry out appropriate risk assessments for activities, ensuring individual patient risk assessments are understood & followed for activities on or off the ward.
- Work with the Ward Manager to identify & maintain appropriate equipment & materials, ensuring activity resources are prepared & available before sessions.
- Participate in Prevention & Management of Violence and Aggression (PMVA) training, including physical intervention, & maintain the physical capability.
Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is a specialist mental health and community health services trust. Rated ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, we’re committed to providing the best possible care to people across Berkshire. As an employer, we’re committed to offering an inclusive and compassionate environment where our people share in a sense of belonging and are supported to flourish.
- Flexible working options to support work-life balance
- 27 days’ annual leave rising with service + opportunity to buy and sell
- Excellent learning and career development opportunities
- ‘Cycle to Work’ and car leasing scheme including electric vehicles
- Access to a range of wellbeing tools and services
- Discounts at hundreds of popular retailers and restaurants
- Staff networks for race, diversity, disabilities, the environment and armed forces community to support equality
- Generous maternity, paternity, adoption and special leave
- Free parking across Trust sites
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme. Caring for and about you is our top priority. Committed to providing good quality, safe services. Working Together with you to develop innovative solutions.
The “must haves” for you to be considered for this role:
- GCSE Grade C or equivalent in English
- Demonstrated knowledge of craft and social activities and how they can be effectively used within a group setting
- Demonstrated Basic knowledge of health and safety
For further information about the role, please see attached job description and person specification. We’re committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in our accreditations: Race Equality Matters Silver Trailblazer, Neurodiversity in Business Corporate Member, Disability Confident Leader, Carer Confident Level 2, and the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award. Reasonable adjustments will be provided to candidates as needed. We welcome a conversation about flexibility and any other questions you may have.
Please don’t hesitate to call: Lincoln Cordner on 07825960457 or email: Lincoln.Cordner@berkshire.nhs.uk; who’ll be delighted to help.
This advert closes on Wednesday 5 Aug 2026.
Salary: £25,760 - £27,476 per annum, pro rata
Hours: Part-time
Location: Reading, RG30 4EJ
Job type: Permanent
Posting date: 29 Jul 2026
Closing date: 28 Aug 2026
Activities Coordinator | Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in Reading employer: Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Activities Coordinator | Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in Reading
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
Join local mental health organisations and initiatives to immerse yourself in the community. Volunteering at workshops or support groups can not only boost your experience but also help you make valuable connections that might lead to part-time roles. It’s all about getting your name out there!
✨Attend Networking Events and Workshops
Keep an eye on workshops and networking events specifically for therapy and counselling professionals. These gatherings are prime opportunities to meet potential employers, hear about job openings, and engage in meaningful conversations with industry peers. Who knows who you might bump into!
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a professional online presence highlighting your counselling approach and experiences. Consider starting a blog or sharing insights on social media about therapy methods. This can attract attention from local companies like Allscreens Nationwide Ltd who are looking for someone like you for their part-time needs.
✨Directly Approach Local Clinics
Don't be shy about reaching out directly to clinics or counselling practices in your area. Many part-time roles are filled without ever being advertised. A friendly email introducing yourself and expressing interest in potential opportunities at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd can sometimes lead to the job you’ve been dreaming of!
We think you need these skills to ace Activities Coordinator | Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Compassionate Side:In the therapy and counselling professions, it's crucial to convey your empathy and understanding in your application. Your CV should highlight any relevant volunteer work or experience in helping roles. Let’s face it, potential employers want to see that you can connect with clients, so showcase those soft skills front and centre!
Include Your Credentials:For a part-time role in therapy or counselling, it’s essential to demonstrate your qualifications. Make sure to include any degrees, certifications, or workshops that are relevant to the position. If you’ve completed specific training in mental health or counselling techniques, don’t skip those; they can set you apart from others.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your interest in working part-time and highlight your passion for helping others. Talk about why you’re drawn to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd and how the part-time role fits into your career path. We're looking for a genuine connection, so let your personality shine through!
Availability Matters:Since this is a part-time role, clearly outline your availability in your application. Be honest about the hours you can commit, and consider mentioning if you have any flexibility. This helps Allscreens Nationwide Ltd see how you can fit into their schedule and be a valuable addition to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Know Your Theoretical Frameworks
It's crucial for us to brush up on the therapy techniques and theoretical frameworks relevant to this field. Be prepared to discuss how you apply them in practice—think about specific case studies from your training that highlight your approach. This not only shows your understanding but also helps you connect with your potential clients at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
✨Practice Your Active Listening Skills
Since we're diving into therapy and counselling, active listening is our bread and butter. You might face role-play scenarios during the interview, so make sure to showcase your ability to listen and respond empathetically. Demonstrating this skill can make all the difference in how we're perceived as future therapists.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility With Clients
In a part-time role, we often deal with a diverse client base, so it’s important to showcase our adaptability. Be ready to discuss how you can tailor your therapeutic approach to fit different client needs. Sharing any past experiences—whether from internships or coursework—will provide great insights to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd about your versatility.
✨Prepare Your Questions on Working with Diverse Populations
Part-time roles can sometimes mean working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds. Think of specific questions to ask about how Allscreens Nationwide Ltd supports inclusivity and handles diverse cases. This not only highlights your interest but also shows that you’ve thought ahead about client dynamics and your role within them.
