About Us Stewarts Care is a long-established voluntary organisation, funded by the HSE under Section 38. We support people with intellectual disabilities through residential care, day services, independent living, job advocacy, and vocational training. Purpose of the Post Successful candidates will play a key role in supporting the implementation of our new Respite Service on a seasonal basis at the Regional Equine Therapy Hub in Kilcloon, Co. Meath. Additionally, there may be opportunities for progression into permanent salaried part-time and full-time positions. Reporting to the Director of Care, Resident Services, our Seasonal Care Staff, Respite Services, will initially be placed on a Fixed Termcontract to provide support during school closures through summertime, in autumn and over Christmas. Hours of work will initially be Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm with the possibility of weekend work as the service grows. Our Respite Care Staff in Kilcloon will be responsible for ensuring the delivery of a respite service which empowers and supports children with different abilities to have an enriched experience based on their own decisions and choice within a culture which is grounded in equine therapy, empowerment, inclusion, enrichment and kindness. Experience and Qualifications QQI Level 5 Healthcare Support/Social Studies/Pre-nursing/Community Studies or SKILL-VEC Level 5 or equivalent is desirable and/or minimum Special Needs Assistant qualification. One years experience working in the area of disability is an advantage. Previous experience around horses or other large animals is a benefit. Hands on experience with horse care, grooming, tacking, Experience in maintaining accurate records and handling administrative tasks. Creativity (e.g., in using community resources, problem solving, supporting service user needs). Professional, accountable, good planning and time management skills. Excellent Communication Skills. Flexibility to work in other services provided by Stewarts Care. Knowledge of HIQA, the Health Act 2007- 2013, Progressing Disability Services for children and young people, New Directions & Mental Health in Intellectual Disability. Benefits and Perks Financial: Public sectors pay and pension, sick pay scheme, VHI group insurance scheme, Hospital Saturday Fund, Health Services Credit Union. Career Development: Education and CPD support, progression and development opportunities. Family and Lifestyle: Enhanced parental leave benefits, Cycle to Work scheme. Health and Wellbeing: Free online GP, Employee Assistance Programme, discounted leisure centre (gym and pool) at our Palmerstown location, subsidised onsite canteen at our Palmerstown location with Regional Equine Therapy Hub canteen coming soon. Note: Certain benefits are available following successful completion of the probation period. Salary:In line with the Department of Health consolidated pay scales, the current salary scale is Care Assistant (Disability Services), €34,536 €47,954 per annum (including LSI). How to Apply:Please include a CV and cover letter demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria. Shortlisting will be based on this. Please be advised that a panel of successful candidates may be formed as a result of this recruitment process. Stewarts Careis an equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. Applicants who require assistance or reasonable accommodations at any stage of the application or interview process may contact in confidence. Reference:Ref: SC26-827
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