Social Care Worker - Children's Services - Permanent Contract - Ref D029

CoAction West Cork provides quality services to support children and adults with an intellectual disability and children with autism. This is achieved by helping each service user reach their full potential, working in partnership with their families and carers, within the community.

Social Care Worker

Responsible to the Social Care Leader and Area Manager - children's services and home support (to lead two Saturday clubs per month). Permanent, full time contract - 39 hours per week. Closing date: Friday 17 April 2026.

Job Details

For full position details and application instructions, visit our jobs website or email .

Overall Purpose of Position

To provide additional support to a child with intellectual disability who is enrolled in the WCCDS services. To encourage, promote and support the child in their own home and facilitate integration into their local community.

Main Responsibilities

• Support a child in the child's own home and community, working under the line manager, the Children's Services Coordinator.
• Work the hours appointed by the coordinator and meet the child's individual needs, focusing on care, physical, health and safety issues.
• Treat all children and families with the utmost respect in line with CoAction's ethos.
• Provide personal and intimate care, attending to the child's physical needs.
• Encourage participation in day to day activities at home and contribute to stimulating programmes and recreation activities.
• Escort and assist the child on social outings in the local community.
• Pre vent abuse, bullying or threats of bullying.
• Implement agreed programmes with the Coordinator and maintain good relationships with the family and other professionals.
• Adhere to health and safety guidelines at all times.
• Keep the Coordinator informed of all matters relating to the child's welfare through regular communication.
• Engage in training courses to develop relevant skills and abilities.
• Contribute positively to the overall development of CoAction.
• Maintain confidentiality with strict regard to shared information within the team.

Other Duties

The role may include other duties agreed with the Children's Services Coordinator.

Confidentiality

• All records and information must remain strictly confidential.

Health & Safety

• Use aids and appliances correctly, e.g., hoists.
• Report and document all incidents in the accident/incident book.
• Know the Foundation's duties and the employee duties under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.
• Report faulty equipment to the Person in Charge, Staff Nurse or Supervisor.
• Maintain knowledge of emergency actions and plans.
• Ensure fire and safety precautions are implemented and maintained.

Leadership

• Manage, develop and support staff individually and as a team under the direction of the Social Care Leader/Nurse.
• Coordinate and develop individual care plans to meet the needs of those supported.
• Hold supervision meetings with support staff.
• Carry out goal setting and development with staff.
• Ensure staff adhere to Foundation's policies and procedures.
• Develop and maintain effective communication systems with residents, families and stakeholders.
• Promote dignity at work and respect for all involved.
• Encourage advocacy in person centred care.
• Ensure complaints are dealt with following the Foundation's complaints policy.

Person Specification Essential Qualifications

• Recognised qualification with a third level supervised practice element.
• Recognised professional qualification for social care (e.g., Bachelor of Youth and Community Studies, BA & Hdip, NQSW/BSW/MSW, RGN/RNID/ENMH, HETAC/DIT Diploma or National Diploma in Social Care, Childcare, Applied Social Studies, etc.).
• Registered Nurse Intellectual Disability (RNID) or RNMH qualification.
• Driving licence.

Essential Skills

• Interpersonal skills; ability to relate to people with intellectual disabilities.
• Flexibility and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Knowledge of advocacy and practical application.
• Writing reports; computer literacy.
• Good communication skills; leadership ability.

Essential Experience

• Minimum 12 months experience working in a residential setting with adults with intellectual disability.
• Knowledge of HIQA regulations.
• Supervisory and budgetary experience.
• Intimate/personal care and record keeping.

Desired Experience

• Experience with HIQA regulations and inspections.

Equal Opportunity Statement

CoAction West Cork is an equal opportunity employer.