Community Employment Scheme
A CE scheme based at Childhood Matters that helps adults develop skills, build confidence and find a pathway into employment or further education.
Building skills, confidence and a future
The Community Employment (CE) Scheme at Childhood Matters provides structured work experience and training for adults who are unemployed. The scheme offers up to 27 places, working 19.5 hours per week, for periods of one to three years. Participants gain real work experience across a range of roles at Childhood Matters — from horticulture and ground maintenance, to parenting assistance, security, reception and care roles. Many participants go on to secure employment, enter further education, or complete QQI training qualifications. The scheme is grounded in the same values that run through all of Childhood Matters’ work: respect, development and second chances.
- Up to 27 supported placements.
- Real work experience across multiple roles.
- QQI training opportunities.
- 19.5 hours per week.
- Pathway to employment and education.
- Supportive and structured environment.
Who This Service Is For
The scheme is designed for adults who are looking to build confidence, gain experience and take the next step towards employment or education.
- Typical participants include:
- Adults returning to the workforce.
- People seeking new skills or qualifications.
- People who have experienced barriers to employment.
- Adults looking for a structured and supportive environment.
Meaningful work that makes a difference
Participants gain practical work experience across a range of roles that directly support the work of Childhood Matters. From maintaining the beautiful grounds and glasshouses, to supporting childcare, reception and facilities, participants play an important role in helping create welcoming spaces where children and families can thrive.
The work is real, purposeful and valued. Participants are not simply gaining experience — they are contributing to a service that makes a positive difference in people's lives.
Training and qualifications
Participants can work towards QQI qualifications as part of their time on the scheme. The goal is to give people the skills, credentials and confidence they need to move into employment or further education when they are ready.
More than a Placement
The CE Scheme is about more than gaining work experience. Many participants arrive having spent time away from education or employment and need an opportunity to rebuild confidence, routine and belief in their own abilities.
Through encouragement, support and meaningful work, participants develop the confidence and resilience needed to take the next step in their journey.
A Place for growth, opportunity and second chances.
Outcomes
The CE Scheme creates benefits for participants, Childhood Matters and the wider community.
Participants gain:
- Skills and qualifications.
- Confidence and routine.
- Work experience.
- Pathways to employment and education.
At the same time, participants make an important contribution to Childhood Matters through their work supporting our grounds, facilities and services for the wider benefit of the community.
Referral Details
Places are allocated through approved CE referral pathways in Cork, including the Department of Social Protection, Local Employment Services, the Probation Service and other partner organisations.
What kinds of jobs can I do on the scheme?
Roles include horticulture and grounds maintenance, parenting assistance, security, reception and care support. The exact placement will depend on your interests, skills and what is available at the time.
Will I get a qualification?
Yes — participants can work towards QQI qualifications as part of their time on the scheme.
How long does the scheme last?
The scheme runs for one to three years, depending on whether you are working towards a qualification or training pathway.
What are the hours?
Participants work 19.5 hours per week.
What happens when the scheme ends?
Our goal is for every participant to leave with better prospects than when they arrived — whether that is a job, a college place, a trade, or a qualification. Our team supports participants to plan their next step before their time on the scheme ends.
Could this service help someone you support?
When you’re ready, follow the referral steps to get in touch with our team.
