Please forward your completed application form by post to: HR Department, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork or email hr@childhood-matters.ie

TBD

Working Pattern

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 12-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety respite is incorporated into this project. We are expanding this service into County Kerry and are recruiting for this MDT.

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

Reporting Relationship

The successful candidate will report to the Service Manager

Duties and Responsibilities

•         Deputise fully for the Service Manager in their absence, including clinical escalation.

•         Share, with the Service Manager, a rolling seven-day managerial roster ensuring on-site management presence every day of the week; when not rostered on duty, provide out-of-hours on-call management cover on a rotational basis.

•         Manage the social care worker and key worker team, including rostering of the 24/7 staffing model, supervision, performance management and professional development.

•         Lead the coordination of resident education, training and employment pathways, including referral, attendance monitoring and progression planning across the Leaving Certificate Completion Programme and Community Employment Scheme.

•         Provide line management oversight to the Pathways Co-ordinator and act as the principal liaison between Estuary Way and Childhood Matters’ young people and adult services.

•         Liaise with Cork ETB, the Department of Social Protection and adult education providers in respect of programme planning, eligibility and progression routes.

•         Oversee individual support planning, key working standards and case file management (including PASS-format support plans).

•         Chair weekly team meetings and contribute to multidisciplinary case reviews and reflective practice.

•         Manage incidents, complaints and safeguarding concerns in line with policy, escalating as appropriate.

•         Contribute to KPI reporting, including annual reporting on resident progression to education and employment programmes.

•         Promote a psychologically informed, restorative and youth co-designed service culture.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops

Eligibility Criteria / Qualifications

Applicants must, by the closing date for applications, possess:

Essential Criteria

•         Recognised qualification in social care (minimum Level 7, ideally Level 8) or equivalent relevant professional qualification; eligibility for CORU social care worker registration.

•         Minimum of five years’ relevant experience, including at least two years in a supervisory or management role in residential, homeless, aftercare or youth services.

•         Demonstrated experience of managing staff teams and 24/7 rosters.

•         Knowledge of further education, training and employment pathways for early school leavers and young adults (e.g. QQI, Leaving Certificate provision, Community Employment, apprenticeships).

•         Strong case management, safeguarding and risk assessment skills.

•         Excellent organisational, interpersonal and written communication skills.

•         Availability to work a seven-day managerial roster (shared with the Service Manager) and to participate in the out-of-hours on-call rota.

Desirable Criteria

•         Experience of interagency working with ETBs, the Department of Social Protection, Tusla or the HSE.

•         Management or supervision qualification.

•         Experience in trauma-informed or PIE services.

Tenure : The current vacancy available is a permanent, Full-Time post 1.0WTE

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Provide systemic assessment and therapy to residents individually and, where appropriate, with family members or significant others.

•         Support residents to integrate early adverse experiences and develop safe, healthy relationships.

•         Offer systemic consultation to the multidisciplinary team and contribute to formulation-driven care planning.

•         Co-facilitate reflective and psychoeducation groups.

•         Maintain clinical records and participate in clinical governance structures.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

•         Recognised professional qualification in Systemic/Family Therapy (FTAI-accredited or equivalent).

•         Experience working with adolescents/young adults and families affected by trauma, separation or care experience.

•         Strong collaborative and consultation skills.

Person Requirement

•         Experience in care-leaver, homeless or youth mental health contexts.

•         Additional training in attachment-based models.

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

Interviews dates to be decided

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Act as principal liaison with Tusla Aftercare, social work departments and the Admissions & Discharge Panel.

•         Lead on safeguarding casework for both child protection (Children First) and vulnerable adult concerns.

•         Advocate for residents in respect of housing applications, social welfare entitlements and legal processes.

•         Carry a casework load, contributing to support planning, review and move-on planning.

•         Participate in MDT reviews, reflective practice and clinical governance structures.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

·         CORU-registered Social Worker.

·         Experience in child protection/welfare, aftercare, homelessness or adult safeguarding.

·         Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and policy, including the Child Care Acts, aftercare provisions and the Revised Protocol on Young People Leaving State Care.

·         Excellent assessment, report writing and interagency skills.

Person Requirement

·         Experience of court work.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Key Duties and Responsibilities

•         Deliver practical ‘hurdle help’ — supporting residents with appointments, routines, budgeting, cooking, tenancy skills and engagement with services.

•         Implement individual support plans and contribute to their review; record progress accurately.

•         Support residents’ participation in education, training, employment and evening/weekend activities.

•         Respond to incidents calmly and safely in line with policy, including de-escalation and restorative approaches.

•         Work the 24/7 roster, including waking nights/sleepovers as assigned; complete handovers and daily logs.

•         Build positive, boundaried relationships with residents consistent with trauma-informed and PIE principles.

•         Contribute to a safe, welcoming campus environment and to communal activities, including those developed through the Working Assets Initiative.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

·         CORU-registered Social Worker.

·         Experience in child protection/welfare, aftercare, homelessness or adult safeguarding.

·         Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and policy, including the Child Care Acts, aftercare provisions and the Revised Protocol on Young People Leaving State Care.

·         Excellent assessment, report writing and interagency skills.

Person Requirement

·         Experience of court work.

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

Interviews dates to be decided

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Provide a visible, approachable presence across the campus, including evenings and nights.

•         Monitor access, CCTV and the safety of buildings and grounds; conduct regular checks and maintain logs.

•         Support de-escalation of incidents in conjunction with social care staff, using trauma-informed and restorative approaches.

•         Respond to emergencies (fire, medical, security) in line with procedures; liaise with emergency services where required.

•         Support practical campus tasks and the supervision of communal and outdoor areas.

•         Report concerns regarding resident welfare or safeguarding promptly through agreed channels.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

•         PSA licence (or eligibility to obtain) where applicable to the role.

•         Experience in a security, campus, residential or front-of-house role involving vulnerable people.

•         Calm, respectful interpersonal style and sound judgement under pressure.

•         Willingness to work a 24/7 roster and undertake training in trauma-informed practice and de-escalation.

Person Requirement

–          Experience in homeless, healthcare or youth settings.

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

Interviews dates to be decided

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Assess each resident’s educational history, aspirations and support needs as part of admission and support planning.

•         Coordinate referrals, applications and induction for residents progressing to the Leaving Certificate Completion Programme, Community Employment placements, Youthreach, PLC, apprenticeship and other provision.

•         Monitor attendance, engagement and progression; provide practical and motivational support to sustain participation.

•         Liaise with teaching staff, the CE Supervisor, Cork ETB, the Department of Social Protection, SOLAS-funded providers and employers.

•         Develop on-campus learning supports, including the IT suite, workshop and training facilities.

•         Maintain progression data and contribute to NEET-reduction and education/employment KPIs.

•         Support residents’ tenancy readiness and move-on planning in conjunction with key workers and the AHB, ensuring education and employment progression is integrated with each resident’s pathway to independent living.

•         Support former residents’ continued engagement with education and employment as part of resettlement tracking.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

·         Qualification in education, adult/community education, guidance, youth work or related field.

·         Experience supporting early school leavers or young adults into education, training or employment.

·         Knowledge of the Irish further education and training landscape (ETBs, QQI, CE, apprenticeships).

·         Understanding of tenancy sustainment and the practical steps involved in moving to independent living.

·         Strong coordination, record keeping and relationship building skills.

Person Requirement

·         Experience working with care-experienced or homeless young people.

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

Interviews dates to be decided

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Design and deliver individual and group interventions on budgeting, meal planning, household management, routine, sensory needs and community participation.

•         Support residents’ engagement in education, training, employment and meaningful occupation, working closely with the Deputy Manager and Pathways Co-ordinator.

•         Advise on the physical environment, including accessible units and communal spaces, to maximise independence.

•         Contribute to support planning, MDT reviews and move-on/resettlement planning.

•         Maintain clinical records and contribute to outcome measurement.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

·         CORU-registered Occupational Therapist.

·         Experience of functional assessment and independent living skills development.

·         Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

·         Knowledge of trauma-informed practice.

·         Group facilitation experience.

·         Sensory integration training.

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

Interviews dates to be decided

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Carry out routine maintenance, repairs and planned preventative maintenance across units, communal buildings and grounds.

•         Prioritise rapid repair and turnaround of void units in line with the service’s void management protocols.

•         Maintain cleaning standards in communal and office areas; manage waste and supplies.

•         Care for gardens and outdoor areas, supporting allotment/polytunnel and Working Assets initiatives, including opportunities for resident participation.

•         Maintain records of works, safety checks (fire equipment, legionella, etc.) and contractor visits.

•         Liaise respectfully with residents when accessing units, in line with notice and dignity requirements.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

•         Demonstrated general maintenance skills (carpentry, painting, basic plumbing/electrical awareness).

•         Reliability, initiative and ability to manage a varied workload.

•         Understanding of health and safety in a residential environment.

Person Requirement

•         Experience in housing, residential or campus settings.

•         Safe Pass and manual handling certification.

 A 6-Month Probation Period applies to this post

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Coordinate each resident’s support plan across the MDT, education/training pathways and external services.

•         Accompany and advocate for residents at appointments (health, welfare, housing, legal).

•         Lead engagement strategies for residents who are reluctant or inconsistent in engagement, using flexible, creative and peer-informed approaches.

•         Support move-on and resettlement, including viewings, grants, utilities and community linkage.

•         Maintain standardised case files and contribute to reviews and KPI data.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

·         Relevant qualification in social care, youth work, community work or related field (minimum Level 7).

·         Substantial experience in key working, case management or intensive support roles.

·         Strong engagement skills with young people who have experienced trauma or service disengagement.

·         Full clean driving licence desirable for resettlement support (or access to suitable transport arrangements).

Person Requirement

·         Knowledge of housing and welfare systems (HAP, social housing applications, SWA).

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Support the delivery of group programmes, psychoeducation and wellbeing initiatives.

•         Lead on the collection, collation and analysis of outcome data, supporting KPI reporting, digital tracking and the evaluation framework.

•         Support youth co-design initiatives and the Residents Forum.

•         Maintain records and contribute to audit, research and service evaluation.

•         Engage fully in supervision and training.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

·         Honours degree (minimum 2.1, Level 8) in Psychology accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland.

·         Experience (paid or voluntary) working with young people or vulnerable adults.

·         Strong data, IT and organisational skills.

• Commitment to trauma-informed, non-judgemental practice

Person Requirement

•           Research methods/statistics competence (e.g. SPSS, Excel).

•             Experience in homeless or youth services.

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Provide administrative support to the Service Manager and team: correspondence, minutes, diary management, records.

•         Support financial administration: purchase orders, invoices, petty cash, payroll returns and preparation of quarterly financial management accounts.

•         Maintain resident records systems, licence documentation and data returns (including PASS-related reporting) in line with GDPR.

•         Coordinate building, IT and supplier matters with the Maintenance and Security/Campus Support team.

•         Support HR administration: recruitment logistics, Garda vetting tracking, training records and roster administration.

•         Act as first point of contact for visitors and callers, modelling the welcoming ethos of the service.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

•         Person Specification – Essential

•         Strong administrative experience, ideally in a health, social care, housing or non-profit setting.

•         Excellent IT skills (MS Office, databases) and accurate record keeping.

•         Experience of financial administration.

•         Discretion and a strong understanding of confidentiality.

• Experience with funder reporting or SLA environments.
• Payroll or bookkeeping qualification/experience

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

Application form available on our website – careers section, at:  https://childhood-matters.ie/

Applications to be sent by post to HR Dept, Childhood Matters, Blackrock, Cork, T12CRA0

Or email to recruitment@childhood-matters.ie

Interviews dates to be decided

may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long-term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

·         Estuary Way: A new trauma-informed supported accommodation service providing integrated housing and wraparound supports for young adults transitioning to independent living.

·         Child Court Advocate: Independent advocacy and court accompaniment service supporting children and young people to navigate legal proceedings in a safe, child-centered, and trauma-informed manner.

Purpose of Role:

•         Provide a visible, approachable presence across the campus, including evenings and nights.

•         Monitor access, CCTV and the safety of buildings and grounds; conduct regular checks and maintain logs.

•         Support de-escalation of incidents in conjunction with social care staff, using trauma-informed and restorative approaches.

•         Respond to emergencies (fire, medical, security) in line with procedures; liaise with emergency services where required.

•         Support practical campus tasks and the supervision of communal and outdoor areas.

•         Report concerns regarding resident welfare or safeguarding promptly through agreed channels.

•         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

•         PSA licence (or eligibility to obtain) where applicable to the role.

•         Experience in a security, campus, residential or front-of-house role involving vulnerable people.

•         Calm, respectful interpersonal style and sound judgement under pressure.

•         Willingness to work a 24/7 roster and undertake training in trauma-informed practice and de-escalation.

.

Person Requirement

–          Experience in homeless, healthcare or youth settings.

 A 6-Month Probation Period applies to this post

•           Defined contribution pension scheme.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

•           Staff parking

16.06.2026

29.06.2026

TBD

Working Pattern

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 12-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety respite is incorporated into this project. We are expanding this service into County Kerry and are recruiting for this MDT.

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

Purpose of Role:

Role Purpose

To provide overall leadership, clinical oversight and operational management of Estuary Way, a 38-unit supported transitional accommodation service for 64 young adults (18–24) exiting homelessness, delivered in partnership with Cork City Council, Tusla and the HSE. The Service Manager will hold responsibility for the safety, quality and effectiveness of the therapeutic service, the performance of the multidisciplinary team, and the delivery of all obligations under the Service Level Agreement.

Reporting Relationship

The successful candidate will report to Chief Executive / Director of Services of Childhood Matters; accountable to the Estuary Way Oversight Group or nominee.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

·         Provide clinical and operational leadership to a multidisciplinary team of approximately 22 WTE across social care, clinical, vocational and campus support functions.

·         Share, with the Deputy Manager, a rolling seven-day managerial roster ensuring on-site management presence every day of the week; when not rostered on duty, provide out-of-hours on-call management cover on a rotational basis.

·         Hold overall responsibility for clinical governance, including weekly multidisciplinary review meetings, structured supervision, reflective practice and oversight of safeguarding, risk management and care progression planning.

·         Ensure the service operates in line with trauma-informed care, Psychologically Informed Environments (PIE) and restorative practice frameworks.

·         Lead the implementation of the referral, assessment, admission and discharge processes in conjunction with the interagency Admissions & Discharge Panel.

·         Manage the service budget in line with the approved Business Case; prepare quarterly activity and financial management accounts for the Oversight Group.

·         Lead, with the AHB partner, the integration of tenancy management and therapeutic support functions.

·         Build and maintain effective working relationships with Cork City Council, Tusla, HSE Southwest, the AHB and community stakeholders.

·         Oversee impact measurement, data collection (including PASS reporting), KPI performance and the year-one evaluation.

·         Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulation and policy, including Children First (2015), National Vetting Bureau Acts, safeguarding of vulnerable adults, GDPR, and health and safety obligations.

·         Recruit, induct, develop and retain staff; foster a culture of reflective practice, staff wellbeing and continuous quality improvement.

·         Undertake such other duties as may reasonably be assigned, consistent with the grade and purpose of the post. This job description will be reviewed during the pilot phase as the service develops.

The above Job Description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post which may be assigned from time to time.

Eligibility Criteria / Qualifications

Applicants must, by the closing date for applications, possess:

Essential Criteria

• CORU-registered Social Worker with a recognised professional qualification in social work.
• Minimum of seven years’ post-qualification experience, including significant experience at senior/team leader level in homelessness, aftercare, youth or therapeutic residential services.
• Demonstrated experience of clinical governance, safeguarding and risk management in a complex service environment.
• Proven budget management and reporting experience, ideally within SLA or grant-funded structures.
• Strong understanding of the Irish policy landscape: Youth Homelessness Strategy 2023–2025, Housing for All, Sláintecare, aftercare policy and the Revised Protocol on Young People Leaving State Care (20/2025).
• Excellent interagency, communication and leadership skills.
• Availability to work a seven-day managerial roster (shared with the Deputy Manager) and to participate in the out-of-hours on-call rota.

Desirable Criteria

• Post-graduate qualification in management, clinical supervision or a therapeutic discipline.
• Experience of establishing or commissioning a new service.
• Experience working within trauma-informed or PIE-accredited services.

Key Competencies

• Organisation & Prioritisation
• Communication & Relationship Management
• Attention to Detail
• Confidentiality & Professional Judgement
• Initiative & Problem Solving
• Team Collaboration
• Adaptability & Resilience

Additional Information

This role will involve exposure to sensitive employee and organisational information and therefore requires a high level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality at all times.

Tenure

This post is offered on a permanent basis.

Salary aligned to the HSE Consolidated Pay Scales, commensurate with experience.

Grade: Principal Social Worker

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

AVAILABLE AT  https://childhood-matters.ie/

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 10-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety (EPOS) and Aftercare is incorporated into this project

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

Purpose of Role:

The relief role is across two services; the Parent and Infant unit and the EPOS residential House.

The Parent and Infant Unit is a residential support and assessment service for parents with infant children. While living on the unit, parents take part in a parenting assessment while also engaging in a programme of therapeutic support and key working tailored to meet their individual needs. The Social Care team provide assistance, developmental guidance and monitoring to each of the families though their residential bespoke placement.

The EPOS supports families where children under age 18 are on the edge of care or their care placement is at risk of breakdown.

The service engages with Tusla and professional networks to provide intensive support to children and their carers both in clinic and in the community. The service also provides emergency respite to a small number of young people.

•         Support, understand, and record parents’ ability to meet the emotional, physical and basic care needs of their children whilst working according to psychologically-informed care plans

•         Understand, support and engage with young people out of home, offering them care and boundaries relevant to their age and stage of development

•         Work in partnership with our multidisciplinary team in the development and progression of individualised care plan for clients

•         Impart formal and informal feedback aimed to help parents adjust to parenthood and develop their parenting skills and emotional connection with their child(ren)

•         Undertake assigned parenting development intervention to include group play, baby sensory work, parenting demonstration, psychoeducation on developmental awareness/attachment/mentalizing capacity

•         Work in partnership with the wider team in the context of understanding resident adults, infants, children and adolescents

•         To provide childcare for children

•         Contribute toward trauma informed working environment for both clients and colleagues

•         Demonstrate commitment and enthusiasm to developing skillset in niche area of service provision within Irish context though ongoing professional development and reflective supervision

•         Contribute to team discussions and Actively participate in team meetings.

•         Cleaning duties

•         To make written logs on a regular basis on the progress of development of the children and their families.

•         Reporting and recording any incidents, that may happen to the / children and their families or are caused by them.

•         Ensure Child protection procedures are followed

•         To keep abreast of current legislation and current professional child care knowledge.

•         To implement the Childhood Matters procedures and policies.

•         To undertake ongoing professional training and development.

•         To attend regular supervision with the designated supervisor.

•         To perform any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Team Work /Training & Professional Development

•         Participate in working within a team centered consistent approach.

•         Participate in further training and development as required.

•         Working with other professionals and external stakeholders

•         Participate in regular team meetings, reflective practice, complex case discussions etc Engage in reflective and evidence-based practice.

•         Be responsible for own health and wellbeing in order to carry out the duties of the role / is committed to managing own work / life balance.

•         Keep abreast of current legislation and current professional child care knowledge.

Health & Safety

·         Comply with and contribute to the development of policies, procedures, guidelines and safe professional practice and adhere to relevant legislation, regulations and standards.

The above Job Description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post which may be assigned to him/her from time to time.

·         Minimum of NFQ Level 5 qualification social care, social science, Early Years, psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychology or equivalent is required.

·         Verification of garda Clearance

·         Validation of three references.

Experience;

•         Experience of working therapeutically with clients

•         Experience in conflict resolution mediation

•         Experience in lone working

•         Experienced in record keeping and report writing

Skills, knowledge and abilities;

•         Ability to work in a people centered and needs led manner

•         Knowledge of child development and family dynamics

•         Understanding of the relevant legislation, best practice and issues relevant to the area of Children’s services and Family Support

•         Excellent communication, IT and report writing skills

•         Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team

•         Adaptable and flexible with regard to service development and working hours

Desirable

•         Experience of legal responsibilities with regard to child protection and child care

•         Knowledge around Trauma informed Care approaches

•         Trained in Parenting Programmes or other relevant trainings to the post

•         A full clean driver’s license

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Staff parking

Application Form Only – CV’s will not be accepted

Please forward completed application form to hr@childhood-matters.ie

(Download Application Form)

16.04.2026

29.04.2026  5pm

TBD

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 12-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety respite is incorporated into this project. We are expanding this service into County Kerry and are recruiting for this MDT to provide an emergency place of safety in Mallow.

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

Purpose of Role:

The Placement Support Project supports families where children under age 18 are on the edge of care or their care placement is at risk of breakdown.

The service engages with Tusla and professional networks to provide intensive support to children and their carers both in clinic and in the community. The service also provides emergency respite to a small number of young people.

The successful candidate/s will play a key role in contributing to MDT discussions of each child or family’s needs as well as those of the system around them, formulating the presenting difficulties and considering appropriate intervention. The clinician/s joining our organisation will provide both direct and indirect therapeutic input. They will liaise with partner agencies and endeavour to achieve positive outcomes for children in care, or on the edge of care, and their carers, working to build/restore placement stability and enhance key relationships in the child’s family/support network.

Working with Children/Young People/Families

·         To work as a member of a residential team, providing high-quality Social Care to children in care or on the edge of care in a residential setting.

·         To support trauma-informed practices within the team.

·         To be responsible for developing individual care plans, and manage the day to day needs of our clients within the bounds of the service’s operational policies.

·         To provide emotional and practical support to our young people, and advocate for their needs.

·         Foster a safe, protective environment for young people and manage their needs effectively

·         Facilitate engagement in educational, recreational and social participation.

·         Promote an effective and productive team ethos, fostering our Childhood Matters trauma-informed and trauma-responsive approach at all times.

·         To participate in the development and implementation of care plans and tailored interventions and to ensure appropriate recording of same.

•         To promote the rights and responsibilities of each child/young person within the service.

•         To liaise with the parent, family, services and other agencies on behalf of the client.

•         Adhere to all regulations governing the care of children in a residential setting.

Administration and Accountability

•         To attend team meeting/handovers and to report to the Clinical Lead/ Service Manager on matters affecting the delivery of service.

•         To provide written documentation on a regular basis on casework.

•         Reporting and recording any incidents, that may happen to the / children and their families or are caused by them.

•         Ensure Child protection procedures are followed.

•         To implement the Childhood Matters procedures and policies.

•         To undertake ongoing professional training and development.

•         To attend regular supervision with the designated supervisor.

•         To perform any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Team Work /Training & Professional Development

•         Work collaboratively with a team to provide trauma responsive interventions and evidence-based practice.

•         Participate in further training and development as required.

•         Working with other professionals and external stakeholders

•         Participate in regular team meetings, reflective practice, complex case discussions etc

•         Be responsible for own health and wellbeing in order to carry out the duties of the role / is committed to managing own work / life balance.

•         Keep abreast of governance standards of care for children in residential units.

Health & Safety

·         Comply with and contribute to the development of policies, procedures, guidelines and safe professional practice and adhere to relevant legislation, regulations and standards.

The above Job Description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post which may be assigned to him/her from time to time.

Minimum of NFQ Level7/ 8 qualification in Social Care or hold a relevant qualification in one of  the following disciplines;

·         QQI Level 7 in Psychology

·         QQI Level 7 or Professional Practice Qualification in Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy

·         QQI Level 7 or Professional Practice Qualification in Counselling / Psychotherapy

·         QQI Level 7 or Professional Practice Qualification in Addiction Counselling

·         QQI Level 7 in Youth and Community or similar

·         QQI Level 7 in Social Science / Social Studies

·         QQI Level 7 in Family Support

·         Professional Qualification in Teaching (Not TEFL)

·         Professional Qualification in Nursing Studies

·         QQI Level 7 in Disability Studies

·         QQI Level 7 in Applied Behavioural Analysis

·         BA in Applied Policing or equivalent

·         Holder of Higher Certificate in Custodial Care (Irish Prison Service) or equivalent

·         For applicants awaiting CORU registration for Social Care Work, please indicate status of your application.

·         A full clean driver’s license

Experience;

 Practice in Social Care Work or its equivalent and experience as a Social Care Worker with young people and families.

Skills, knowledge and abilities;

•         Ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a Residential Team with support from a wider Multi-disciplinary Team

•         Knowledge of child development and family dynamics

•         Understanding of Trauma-informed practices, best practice and issues relevant to working with children in care.

•         Ability to network, develop links and engage with statutory sector and local community

•         Strong communication, IT and report writing skills

•         Adaptable and flexible with regard to service development and working hours

Desirable

·         CORU Registered

·         Knowledge of models such as Signs of Safety, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention

·         Group work with children and families

·         Experience of working therapeutically with clients

·         Experience of legal responsibilities with regard to child protection and child care

·         Experience in home visiting

·         Knowledge and Training in Trauma informed Care approaches, risk assessment, care planning.

Aligned with the HSE Social Care Work Salary Scale October 2024.

Candidates should note that entry will be at the minimum point of the scale and will not be subject to negotiation.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education

Application Form Only – CV’s will not be accepted(Download Application Form)

–       may be subject to change based on volume of candidates and availability of Service resources.

·         Parent and Infant Unit: Nationwide parenting capacity-building and assessment residential service for complex parents and infant situations where distinct child protection concerns.

·         CHIPPS: CHIPPS is a specialist attachment-focused, trauma-informed mental health service for children and young people in care.

·         Young Parents Support Programme: The Young Parents Support Programme (YPSP for short) is the only targeted community-based support service for young parents in Ireland.

·         The Limetree Project: Therapeutic community-based family support and family contact project, in partnership with South Lee & West Cork Social Work Department to include out of hours service.

·         Supervised Contact: Contact Service provides structured supports and interventions for children who are in the care of TUSLA to have contact with their parents, siblings and other family members.

·         Placement Support Project: This project is aimed at stabilizing at-risk foster placements, and supporting family reunification through intensive multidisciplinary support over a 12-week period, and the provision of a stability roadmap specifically tailored to the family. Emergency place of safety respite is incorporated into this project. We are expanding this service into County Kerry and are recruiting for this MDT.

·         Crèche & Preschool: Award-winning Community Crèche and Childcare facility to include afterschool programme with a current capacity of 124 children.

·         Secondary School One Year Leaving Certificate programme in partnerships with Cork Education and Training Board, providing parents opportunity to advance education when using clinical family services

·         Employment Support Service: Vocational training for long term unemployed individuals within therapeutic and trauma-informed environment.

Purpose of Role:

The Placement Support Project supports families where children under age 18 are on the edge of care or their care placement is at risk of breakdown.

The service engages with Tusla and professional networks to provide intensive support to children and their carers both in clinic and in the community. The service also provides emergency respite to a small number of young people.

The successful candidate/s will play a key role in contributing to MDT discussions of each child or family’s needs as well as those of the system around them, formulating the presenting difficulties and considering appropriate intervention. The clinician/s joining our organisation will provide both direct and indirect therapeutic input. They will liaise with partner agencies and endeavour to achieve positive outcomes for children in care, or on the edge of care, and their carers, working to build/restore placement stability and enhance key relationships in the child’s family/support network.

Working with Children/Young People/Families

·         To work as a member of a residential team, providing high-quality Social Care to children in care or on the edge of care in a residential setting.

·         To support trauma-informed practices within the team.

·         To be responsible for developing individual care plans, and manage the day to day needs of our clients within the bounds of the service’s operational policies.

·         To provide emotional and practical support to our young people, and advocate for their needs.

·         Foster a safe, protective environment for young people and manage their needs effectively

·         Facilitate engagement in educational, recreational and social participation.

·         Promote an effective and productive team ethos, fostering our Childhood Matters trauma-informed and trauma-responsive approach at all times.

·         To participate in the development and implementation of care plans and tailored interventions and to ensure appropriate recording of same.

•         To promote the rights and responsibilities of each child/young person within the service.

•         To liaise with the parent, family, services and other agencies on behalf of the client.

•         Adhere to all regulations governing the care of children in a residential setting.

Administration and Accountability

•         To attend team meeting/handovers and to report to the Clinical Lead/ Service Manager on matters affecting the delivery of service.

•         To provide written documentation on a regular basis on casework.

•         Reporting and recording any incidents, that may happen to the / children and their families or are caused by them.

•         Ensure Child protection procedures are followed.

•         To implement the Childhood Matters procedures and policies.

•         To undertake ongoing professional training and development.

•         To attend regular supervision with the designated supervisor.

•         To perform any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Team Work /Training & Professional Development

•         Work collaboratively with a team to provide trauma responsive interventions and evidence-based practice.

•         Participate in further training and development as required.

•         Working with other professionals and external stakeholders

•         Participate in regular team meetings, reflective practice, complex case discussions etc

•         Be responsible for own health and wellbeing in order to carry out the duties of the role / is committed to managing own work / life balance.

•         Keep abreast of governance standards of care for children in residential units.

Health & Safety

·         Comply with and contribute to the development of policies, procedures, guidelines and safe professional practice and adhere to relevant legislation, regulations and standards.

The above Job Description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post which may be assigned to him/her from time to time.

Minimum of NFQ Level7/ 8 qualification in Social Care or hold a relevant qualification in one of  the following disciplines;

·         QQI Level 7 in Psychology

·         QQI Level 7 or Professional Practice Qualification in Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy

·         QQI Level 7 or Professional Practice Qualification in Counselling / Psychotherapy

·         QQI Level 7 or Professional Practice Qualification in Addiction Counselling

·         QQI Level 7 in Youth and Community or similar

·         QQI Level 7 in Social Science / Social Studies

·         QQI Level 7 in Family Support

·         Professional Qualification in Teaching (Not TEFL)

·         Professional Qualification in Nursing Studies

·         QQI Level 7 in Disability Studies

·         QQI Level 7 in Applied Behavioural Analysis

·         BA in Applied Policing or equivalent

·         Holder of Higher Certificate in Custodial Care (Irish Prison Service) or equivalent

·         For applicants awaiting CORU registration for Social Care Work, please indicate status of your application.

·         A full clean driver’s license

Experience;

 Practice in Social Care Work or its equivalent and experience as a Social Care Worker with young people and families.

Skills, knowledge and abilities;

•         Ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a Residential Team with support from a wider Multi-disciplinary Team

•         Knowledge of child development and family dynamics

•         Understanding of Trauma-informed practices, best practice and issues relevant to working with children in care.

•         Ability to network, develop links and engage with statutory sector and local community

•         Strong communication, IT and report writing skills

•         Adaptable and flexible with regard to service development and working hours

Desirable

·         CORU Registered

·         Knowledge of models such as Signs of Safety, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention

·         Group work with children and families

·         Experience of working therapeutically with clients

·         Experience of legal responsibilities with regard to child protection and child care

·         Experience in home visiting

·         Knowledge and Training in Trauma informed Care approaches, risk assessment, care planning.

Aligned with the HSE Social Care Work Salary Scale October 2024.

Candidates should note that entry will be at the minimum point of the scale and will not be subject to negotiation.

•           Enhanced maternity and paternity benefit

•           Additional Annual leave days

•           Comprehensive annual CPD schedule

•           Financial support for further education