Long-Serving Hospital Play Specialist Retires After 40 Years of Service

13 April 2023

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are celebrating the hard work of Child Health Specialist, Juliet Hughes as she reaches her retirement after 40 years within the NHS.  

Juliet began her healthcare career in University Hospital Llandough in 1982, working as a NNEB nursery nurse and shifted to a focus on play in 1999. 

In 2001, Juliet qualified as a Hospital Play Specialist, an important role helping to put children at ease and prepare them as they undergo medical interventions. Her creativity and work within therapeutic play has supported countless of young people and their families through their hospital journey.  

During her career within the NHS, Juliet has cared for babies, children and young people aged 0-18 through numerous illnesses. She always tries to find creative ways of helping children understand their conditions and treatments and has been an integral part of the Therapeutic Play Department.  

Juliet is highly respected by all the families on Island Ward, and she will be missed by them all.   

Play Services Manager, Sue Reardon, said “Juliet has made a positive impact on so many lives during her 40yrs service. I wish her every happiness in the next chapter of her life.” 

On her retirement, Juliet said, “I am so grateful to the NHS for giving me such a varied and interesting career.” 

We thank Juliet for her hard work over the last 40 years and wish her joy in her onward retirement.