About the Role Orchard Fostering is an Irish company established in 2008 that provides fostering and supported lodging services to children and young people who are referred to its service by TUSLA. Orchard Fostering is committed to service excellence and ensuring the best outcomes for children and young people in its care. We currently have an opportunity for a Social Work Team Lead to join our team. The post holder will report directly to the Orchard Fostering Principal Social Worker. Location: We welcome applicants nationwide, though candidates located in Midlands or surrounding areas, West Meath, Galway or Mayo would be most suitable for the role due to travel requirements. Closing Date for Applications: Friday, 27th March 2026 Purpose of Post: To take responsibility for the overall management and leadership of Orchard Fostering support team, ensuring the provision of safe, caring foster placements that offer safe child centred care to a wide range of children and young people. To provide support, formal supervision and direction to the fostering support team social workers and ensure the delivery of a safe and effective service to carers and children placed within the service. To ensure that the service is compliant with regulations and national standards as well as company policy and procedures. To ensure that National Children First Guidelines are implemented throughout the service to ensure the protection of children. To motivate and lead the support social work team along with the support senior practitioner to continually improve and develop the service provided, ensuring the promotion and maintenance of excellent relationships with TUSLA and HIQA. Essential Requirements: Must have a professional qualification in Social Work i.e., CQSW, Masters in Social Work or equivalent qualification validated in the Republic of Ireland. Must be registered with CORU. Must have valid Garda Clearance. Must have valid Overseas Clearance if applicant lived abroad for more than 6 months. Must have at least 3 years' social work experience, previous experience in the foster care field is desirable but not mandatory. Must have a clean driver's license and use of a car. IND Benefits to working with Company Comprehensive induction process Extensive training programme On-going mentoring and support Competitive salary with increments Refer a friend initiative Orchard Fostering Employee of the Month Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Internal career progression opportunities Bike to work scheme Education Assistance grants To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process, click the Apply button below to Login/Register.