Diversional Therapist

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey. Elizabeth Knox Home and Hospital – Epsom, North Island At Elizabeth Knox Home & Hospital, we believe every person deserves to live with dignity, purpose, connection, and joy. We are seeking a compassionate and creative Diversional Therapist to join our Thrive Team and play a key role in enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life of our residents. This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about therapeutic recreation, meaningful engagement, and supporting older people, particularly those living with dementia, to maintain their identify, independence, and sense of belonging. About the Role As a Diversional Therapist, you will design, deliver, and evaluate engaging therapeutic recreation programmes that support residents' physical, cognitive, emotional, social, spiritual, and cultural wellbeing. A significant component of this role focuses on our Dementia Unit, where you will develop and facilitate individualised, evidence-informed activities that reflect each resident's life story, preferences, cognitive abilities, and wellbeing goals. Working closely with our clinical teams, Thrive team, families/whanau, volunteers, and wider Knox community, you will help create meaningful opportunities for residents to engage, connect, and thrive. Key Responsibilities Resident Engagement & Wellbeing Assess residents' interests, strengths, life experiences, abilities, and wellbeing goals. Plan and facilitate meaningful individual and group activities. Encourage participation, independence, social connection, and resident choice. Adapt programmes to meet changing physical, cognitive, sensory, and emotional needs. Dementia Care Support Provide a strong diversional therapy presence within our Dementia Unit. Develop dementia-responsive activities tailored to individual residents. Create engaging and calming environments that support wellbeing. Work alongside care and clinical teams to support residents experiencing distress, withdrawal, boredom, or reduced engagement. Care Planning & Documentation Complete assessments and contribute to resident care planning. Develop activity plans linked to resident goals and preferences. Monitor participation and outcomes and evaluate programme effectiveness. Maintain accurate documentation and records. Collaboration & Community Connections Partner with families/whanau to understand residents' histories and interests. Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to support holistic care. Build relationships with volunteers, community groups, and external organisations to enhance resident experiences. Education & Continuous Improvement Support staff through practical guidance on meaningful engagement and dementia-responsive approaches. Contribute to quality improvement initiatives and service development. Maintain professional standards and stay current with developments in diversional therapy and dementia care. About You Essential Recognised qualification in Diversional Therapy, Recreational Therapy, or a related field. Registration or eligibility for registration with a relevant professional organisation. At least 2 years' experience in diversional therapy, recreational therapy, or a similar role. Experience delivering therapeutic activities within aged care, dementia care, disability, health, or community settings. Sound understanding of person-centred and relationship-centred care. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and documentation skills. Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment. Have right to work and live permanently in New Zealand. Desirable Experience working in a dementia care environment. Knowledge of meaningful engagement approaches for people living with dementia. Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, cultural safety, and inclusive practice. Experience supporting volunteers and coaching staff. Interest in sensory engagement, reminiscence therapy, music, creative therapies, or dementia-capable environments. What We Offer A rewarding role where you can make a genuine difference in residents' lives. Supportive and values-driven workplace culture. Opportunity to work alongside experienced clinical and wellbeing professionals. Ongoing professional development and learning opportunities. About Elizabeth Knox Home & Hospital Elizabeth Knox Home & Hospital is a leading not-for-profit aged care organisation dedicated to empowering older people to live with purpose, dignity, and choice. We are committed to delivering exceptional care and creating meaningful experiences for our residents, families, staff, and wider community. #J-18808-Ljbffr