Relief Social Care Worker - Tuam

Role overview

Ability West is recruiting qualified Social Care Workers for its residential service in Tuam. The position is focused on supporting children and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism so they can live fulfilling, self-directed lives in an inclusive environment.

The organisation delivers a broad range of services across Galway City and County, including day services, residential support, short breaks, community-based services, rehabilitative training and multi-disciplinary supports. Its work is guided by a vision of enabling people with disabilities to live with autonomy, dignity, health and wellbeing.

Key responsibilities

The successful candidate will be part of a staff team delivering residential and respite care in line with organisational policies, procedures, guidelines and safety requirements. In the absence of the Service Manager, the role includes acting as Person in Charge.

You will work with people who may present with behaviours of concern, helping to design and carry out tailored supports and programmes. The role also involves teaching daily living skills such as self-care, household tasks, kitchen work, community participation, leisure and social skills, while supporting individual plans for each person.

As a key worker, you may meet and coordinate with families, multidisciplinary professionals and other members of the team, and carry out home visits when required in consultation with management. You will also supervise, administer and document prescribed medication.

The post requires close collaboration with colleagues, including giving direction to Care Assistants where appropriate, and taking responsibility for the wellbeing of the people supported. You will help build positive relationships, strengthen self-esteem and individuality, and support day-to-day living needs.

Personal care duties may include help with dressing and washing. Household responsibilities include cooking, shopping, cleaning, and caring for clothing and personal belongings, while encouraging service users to take part wherever possible. The role also includes supporting leisure activities suited to individual needs, with a strong emphasis on community inclusion.

Additional duties include using person-first language in spoken and written communication, liaising with staff across the centre and other centres, welcoming families and visitors respectfully, driving Ability West vehicles and/or your own transport, and working a rota spread across 7 days. Sleep-in duties and night duty may be required as scheduled.

You will be expected to maintain records and reports for service management, protect the health and safety of staff and people supported, and follow all required safety measures. A working knowledge of HIQA standards is essential, and compliance with those standards is part of the role. The duties listed are not exhaustive.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a professional degree at minimum Level 7 in Applied Social Studies or another relevant qualification. CORU registration is required, or you must already be in the process of registering.

Applicants should have previous experience supporting people with intellectual disabilities or in a similar setting, a full current driving licence, and access to their own vehicle. The role also calls for the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, strong problem-solving ability, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

A motivated, energetic and enthusiastic approach is important, along with the confidence to advocate for the people supported.

Benefits

Staff receive regular support and supervision, access to an Employee Assistance Program, and a wide range of on-the-job training including Studio III and medication training.

The organisation offers the chance to work in a person-centred environment where you can contribute positively to individuals and communities, alongside a supportive and inclusive culture that values employee input and ideas.

Professional growth is supported through training and hands-on experience. The package also includes 22 days of annual leave initially plus public holidays pro rata, a contributory pension scheme of 7%, flexible benefits, a Bike to Work Scheme, and a 10% discount on LAYA Healthcare.

Additional information

This is a full-time onsite role based in Tuam, County Galway, Ireland. The post involves shift work over 7 days and may include sleep-in and night shifts as rostered.