Children's Residential Care Worker

About Odyssey Social Care

Odyssey Social Care Ltd is a premier provider of residential care for children in Ireland, dedicated to offering trauma-informed and high-standard support. Their care philosophy, termed the Odyssey Model of Care, integrates therapeutic methods, education, emotional wellbeing, and positive role modeling to nurture and empower young people in a secure and structured setting.

Role Overview

The position of Children’s Residential Care Worker involves direct frontline support for youths facing complex challenges, behavioural issues, and emotional difficulties. The role emphasizes tailored care, behavioural plan implementation, and the encouragement of essential life skills, resilience, and self-confidence. This opportunity suits individuals passionate about youth social care and therapeutic residential environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft and execute Behaviour Support Plans, Placement Plans, and carry out thorough risk evaluations.
• Deliver trauma-informed, child-focused, and responsive residential care.
• Support the education and school engagement of young people, including assistance with homework and daily routines.
• Encourage development of life skills, independence, emotional regulation, and foster positive behaviours.
• Maintain precise and current records such as daily logs and incident reports.
• Liaise effectively with parents, social workers, schools, and referring authorities.
• Engage in team meetings, professional supervision, continuous training, and contribute to service enhancement.
• Assist in household duties including cooking, cleaning, and sustaining a welcoming environment.
• Manage petty cash in adherence to financial protocols.
• Ensure safeguarding, child protection compliance, adherence to TUSLA standards, confidentiality, and corporate policies.
• Support a safe and nurturing residential environment.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold at least a Level 7 qualification in Social Care or equivalent credentials such as QQI Level 8 in Psychology, QQI Level 7 in Youth & Community, Social Science, or related disciplines. Other acceptable qualifications include professional certifications in Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy, Counselling, Early Years Care (for those working with children under 12), Teaching (non-TEFL), Nursing, Applied Policing, or a Higher Certificate in Custodial Care.

Essential Criteria

• Possession of a full, clean manual driving licence valid in Ireland.
• Experience supporting adolescents with challenging behaviours.
• Knowledge of National Standards for Children’s Residential Centres in Ireland.
• Authorization to live and work in Ireland.
• CORU registration authorizing the use of the title 'Social Care Worker'.

Why Work with Odyssey Social Care?

• Flexible work schedules promoting balance between professional and personal life.
• Access to core professional training including safeguarding and trauma-informed practices.
• Opportunities for team-building events and social gatherings.
• Financial support through education grants and health & life insurance contributions.
• Clear incremental pay scale linked with career progression pathways.
• An Employee Assistance Programme available from day one for employees and their families.
• A collaborative and supportive workplace culture.

Company Culture and Values

Odyssey Social Care is dedicated to a culture of safety, quality, trust, empowerment, inclusion, and impactful outcomes. The organisation champions diversity and inclusion and operates sustainably, taking responsibility for its effects on people, communities, and the environment as a Certified B Corporation.

Additional Information

Closing Date for applications is Thursday 1st October 2026. The position is full-time and located at Courtwood Lodge, Ballybrittas, County Laois, Ireland. Salary range is from 37,440 to 41,184 annually.