Diversional/Activity Therapist

Burnviewhealthcare; Belfast; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

A family-run care home provider in Northern Ireland is seeking a part-time Activity Therapist to create and implement recreational activities that enhance residents' physical and emotional well-being. The role focuses on understanding residents’ interests and adapting activities to meet diverse needs. Ideal candidates will have NVQ Level 2/3 in Health & Social Care, experience in activity planning, and strong communication skills. Join a team dedicated to providing high-quality care in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Right to live and work in the UK.
• Experience planning and delivering recreational activities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop activity schedules for residents.
• Organize and lead individual and group activities.
• Adapt activities to meet residents' needs.
• Build relationships with residents to understand their interests.
• Encourage resident participation in activities.

Skills

Relationship building

Nursing / Caring

Servicing

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Health & Social Care

Job description

Overview

Burnview Healthcare is a group of family run care homes specialising in Dementia, Nursing, Residential, and Day care. We create a caring and secure environment where residents know that they are ‘Living Amongst Friends’.

About The Role

We are recruiting a part time Activity Therapist (26 hours per week) to design, deliver and evaluate a variety of recreational and therapeutic activities that support residents’ physical, mental, emotional and social well‑being in a person‑centred, inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop weekly/monthly activity schedules that include physical, cognitive, emotional, and social engagement.
• Organize and lead individual and group activities such as arts and crafts, music therapy, games, physical exercise, reminiscence sessions, gardening, and outings.
• Adapt activities to meet the needs of residents with dementia, reduced mobility, sensory impairments, or mental health conditions.
• Build relationships with residents to understand their hobbies and interests to plan into the Activity Programme.
• Encourage participation and engagement, ensuring that all residents have access to suitable activities.
• Work closely with the Home Manager when contacting external entertainers and organising events.
• Work alongside care staff, nurses, therapists, volunteers, and family members to support residents’ holistic care.
• Maintain accurate records of resident participation, progress, and feedback.
• Regularly review and evaluate the effectiveness of activities and adjust plans accordingly.
• Develop links with local groups, volunteers, and performers to enhance the range and quality of activities available.
• Organize intergenerational or multicultural events where appropriate.

Skills Needed

Relationship, Servicing, Nursing / Caring

Company Culture

In all our homes we aim to care for our residents in a way that promotes independence and autonomy whilst giving each resident the surety that we are there to care and assist with their individual needs. Being family run with nursing experience, we pride ourselves in being active in the operation of our care homes. We have high standards and are driven along with our management team of highly experienced health care professionals to lead our excellent staff in providing the optimum in resident care. We pride ourselves in adhering to the principles of accountability, involvement and communication and as such operate an ‘open door communication policy’ to all.

Required Criteria

• Right to live and work in the UK
• NVQ Level 2/3 in Health & Social Care
• Experience planning and delivering recreational activities
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Desired Criteria

• Relevant Vocational Qualification (achieved/working towards)
• Experience working with older adults or people with dementia

Closing Date

Friday 2nd January 2026

Contract Type

Part time

Salary

Based on Experience