Job Title: Disability Support Specialist Location: County Wicklow Salary: €20 per hour Purpose of the Post The primary objective of this post is to work as part of a team to support and empower residents to be as independent as possible and to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.
The Disability Support Specialist acts as a professional role model, bridging the gap between frontline care and management by providing advanced person-centred support, staff supervision, and clinical assistance under the direction of the Person In-Charge.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities Professional Leadership Clinical Support Role Modelling : Role model a workplace culture that supports the mission, vision, and values of the Talbot Group.
Clinical Standards : Assist in the implementation of clinical policies and evidence-based guidelines to ensure the highest professional standards of care.
Environment Maintenance : Contribute to the promotion and maintenance of a welcoming, caring, and therapeutic environment.
MDT Coordination : Coordinate and prioritize resident appointments in liaison with the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT).
Quality Improvement : Participate in initiatives aimed at improving resident satisfaction and service delivery.
Staff Management Development Supervision : Provide support and supportive supervision to other frontline staff where appropriate.
Communication : Ensure staff are fully informed on all matters affecting the day-to-day running of the service through clear communication lines.
Staff Induction : Educate and support assigned staff, including the induction of new team members and assisting management with performance appraisals.
Conflict Resolution : Participate in matters concerning discipline, grievances, untoward incidents, and complaints when required.
Person-Centred Planning Care Key-Working : Deliver duties such as key-working, medication management, and other day-to-day care-giving responsibilities.
Resident Participation : Actively promote the participation of residents in the planning and development of the centre/residence.
Goal Achievement : Work in partnership with MDT staff and families to support residents in achieving personal goals guided by their care plans.
Reporting : Report immediately to the Person In-Charge any incident of concern involving staff or residents in accordance with policy.
Health, Safety, and Finance Compliance : Ensure services comply with the Health, Safety and Welfare at Work Act **** and Talbot Group policies.
Risk Management : Ensure all accidents and incidents are recorded and that staff are aware of their responsibilities during emergencies.
Financial Management : Support residents in managing personal monies, maintaining accurate records of all expenditure and documenting all transactions.
Records : Maintain comprehensive, secure, and confidential records, including daily reports, family contact sheets, and care plans.
Person Specification Education: Must hold a Diploma or qualification at QQI Level 6 or above in a related healthcare field (e.g., Advanced Health Social Studies, Social Care Studies, Special Needs Assistant, Pre-Nursing, Child Care, or Advanced Certificate in Social Care).
Experience: Minimum of 2 years' experience as a Direct Support Worker or a related role.
Knowledge of principles and techniques utilized in cognitive rehabilitation.
Legal Status: Due to legal restrictions, candidates must be a holder of an Irish/EU/EEA Passport .
Licensing: Full Driving Licence is essential.
Competencies: Advanced communication skills, ability to react effectively to changing circumstances, and a strong "bias for action" in problem-solving.