Purpose of Post
The primary objective of this post is to provide care and support through a person-centred approach which meets the practical, physical and emotional needs of Residents, with an Intellectual Disability/ABI/Autism. To provide Residents with support, training and activities to achieve their highest level of functioning, thereby improving their skills which will enable them develop and maintain independence.
The Social Care Worker will also be responsible for co-ordinating the shift when on duty and for the management of other staff under his/her supervision.
The Social Care Worker will be required to work collaboratively as part of a MDT in service delivery to Residents. They will report directly to the Person In-Charge.
Essential Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria on the closing date:
A qualification at level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications in Social Care, Social Work, Youth Work, Teaching, Nursing, Childcare with disability modules (or other relevant discipline)
Essential Experience
Experience of working in a children’s residential service setting
Special Skills and Competencies

Professional Knowledge & Experience
Knowledge of quality assurance practise and their application to service provision
Experience of working with children with an Intellectual Disability/Acquired Brain Injury/Autism
Knowledge of services to children with a disability
Knowledge of social care model of service delivery
Knowledge of Person Centred Planning
Knowledge of clinical policies, HR policies and procedures, and relevant legislation
Knowledge of National Disability Standards (HIQA)
Competencies Required
Communication & Interpersonal
Can speak clearly, fluently and in a compelling manner to both individuals and groups. Adapts communication style to suit audience. Writes in a clear and concise manner, using appropriate templates, style and language for the reader. Establishes, maintains and concludes therapeutic interpersonal relationships with Residents and other stakeholders. Is able to build rapport quickly with others.

Adaptability & Reliability
Able to react effectively at short notice to changing circumstances. Willing to accept advice and suggestions from others and to learn from experience by changing own behaviour. Demonstrates a high level of dependability in all aspects of the job.
Problem solving and Initiative
Builds a logical approach to addressing problems and managing situations at hand by drawing on their knowledge and experience, and calling on other resources as necessary. The ability to think ahead of the current situation, particularly before problems occur.
Quality and Person Centredness
Demonstrates eagerness to understand Resident needs. Views the Resident as central to the delivery of every day service through consistent understanding, tolerance, care, support and empathy while promoting empowerment, independence and choice. Determined to offer a quality service through the achievement of goals and quality standards.

Leadership and Accountability
Manages performance to deliver team goals. Creates a climate in which people want to do their best. Promotes confidence and positive attitude while influencing others to follow a common goal. Demonstrates accountability for leading, directing, monitoring and evaluating work that is provided by others on the team.
Scope of Practice
Is educated, competent and has the authority to perform the full range of responsibilities and activities attached to the role. Accepts responsibility for ensuring that his/her professional practice and conduct meet the standards of the professional, ethical and relevant legislative and regulatory requirements. Demonstrates a commitment to maintaining, enhancing and extending their knowledge, expertise and competence throughout their professional career.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the overall direction of the Person In-Charge, the Social Care Worker will be responsible for the following, ensuring privacy, dignity and respect of persons with a disability.

Professional
To role model a culture within the workplace which supports the mission, vision and values of the service
Assist in the implementation of clinical policies and guidelines which supports person centred services in line with National Quality Standards.
Assist in the Management of Residents care to ensure the highest professional standards using an evidence-based approach to ensure clinical effectiveness and efficiency.
Coordinate and prioritise appointments in liaison with MDT.
Participate in quality improvement initiatives to improve Resident satisfaction.
Staff Management
Provide support and supportive supervision to other front-line staff where appropriate.
Ensure staff are fully informed on all matters affecting day-to-day running of the service and that lines of communication are clear and implemented by all staff.
To participate in matters concerning discipline, grievances, untoward incidents and complaints, when required.

Person Centred Planning
To work under the direction of the Person In-Charge to ensure that the highest possible standards of care are maintained at all times, consistent with the mission, vision and values of the service.
Actively promote the participation of Residents in the planning of the centre/residence.
To report immediately to the Person In-Charge any incident of concern involving either staff member or Resident, in accordance with the organisations incident reporting policy.
Working in partnership with MDT staff, families and other key people to support the Resident to work towards and achieve their personal goals, guided by their care plan.
To act as key worker for named Resident where appropriate.
Providing individualised support, using a facilitative approach to personal care, whilst ensuring Residents right to dignity and respect at all times.

Community Participation
Promote the social interaction of Residents, with the wider community, in accordance with their choices and personal goals.
Health and Safety
Ensures that services are in compliance with the requirements of the Health, Safety and Welfare at Work Act 2005.
Perform duties in a manner conducive to health and safety and in accordance with Talbot Group policies and procedures.
Ensure that accidents and incidents involving Residents/visitors/staff are recorded in line with policy and all statutory reports completed.
Ensure all staff are aware of their responsibilities in the event of an emergency accident/incident.
Record and Financial Management
To maintain accurate and comprehensive records as are required e.g. daily reports, financial records, communication books, family contact sheets and Resident care plans (where applicable).
To support Residents to manage their personal monies, and to document all transactions.
To maintain accurate records of all expenditure, attaching to the centre/unit (where appropriate).
To ensure that files are up to date and stored in an orderly and secure fashion that ensures Resident confidentiality.

Training and ongoing development
Be aware of current developments in disability services and maintain a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Attend and participate in continuous professional development
Educate and support all assigned staff including the induction of new staff and support line management in ongoing performance appraisal.
This job description is a guide to the general range of duties assigned to the position holder. It is intended to be neither definitive, nor restrictive and is subject to periodic review.

The Job Description
should be read in conjunction with the Contract of Employment and Staff Handbook. All staff must be familiar with, and observe company rules, policies and procedures incl. Pre-Employment Occupational Health Screening.
For further information or to request a job specification, please contact Amanda McKnight, HR – admin@talbotgroup.ie
Application Closing Date: Friday 24th April 2020