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.
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 prioritise 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 2005 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 utilised 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.
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