The Role of Direct Support Worker
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Worker to join our residential community services for adults in Cavan. The successful candidate will support the day-to-day running of our residential centre, working closely with the Social Care Team Lead. They will help ensure compliance with HIQA and HSE standards while delivering person-centred care in line with Inclusive Living's values.
Key responsibilities include:
* Ensuring a safe, homely, and empowering environment
* Acting as a consistent point of contact for service users
* Supporting individuals to navigate services and coordinate their care plans
* Building meaningful relationships with service users, families, and multidisciplinary teams
* Attending meetings and contributing to care planning
* Advocating for service users and liaising with external services
* Providing emotional and practical support across all aspects of daily life
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates must have:
* A relevant qualification (QQI Level 5 or equivalent)
* Previous experience in disability services or social care is welcome
* A full driving license is desirable but not essential
Skills Needed for This Role
Candidates must be able to:
* Promote professional relationships and effective teamwork
* Demonstrate experience in supporting vulnerable individuals
* Demonstrate a commitment to self-development and professionalism
* Communicate clearly and confidently
* Apply relevant IT skills in daily operations
* Maintain resilience and composure in a dynamic care environment
* Work independently while knowing when to seek support
Duties and Responsibilities
Professional & Regulatory
* Facilitate person-centred planning, case reviews, and multidisciplinary meetings.
* Serve as a keyworker, providing consistent support to individuals by:
* Coordinating care plans and services.
* Holding regular meetings and developing plans.
* Advocating on behalf of individuals and liaising with external services.
* Offering emotional support across all areas of life.
* Promote active community participation including in education, and employment in line with each resident's preferences.
* Implement and monitor care plans, risk assessments, and communication passports; promptly report any changes or concerns to management.
* Support residents in attending appointments and communicate outcomes to the Person in Charge (PIC) or relevant professionals, respecting residents' wishes.
* Facilitate weekly residents' meetings to encourage engagement and feedback.
* Assist residents with intimate care needs in accordance with their individual care plans.
* Support daily living activities including meal planning, food preparation, and medication management based on assessed needs.
* Educate and empower residents in self-care to enhance independence and life skills.
* Maintain accurate and compliant records for service users and staff, in line with HIQA standards and legislative requirements.
* Collaborate with service users, families, carers, the multidisciplinary team (MDT), and external agencies to ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centred care.
* Uphold dignity and respect in all interactions with service users and colleagues.
* Ensure the centre remains compliant with HIQA regulations and standards; stay informed of regulatory updates.
* Contribute to the development and implementation of care protocols, standards, and guidelines.
* Adhere to professional standards regarding confidentiality, ethics, and legal obligations.
* Operate within the Scope of Practice; seek guidance from management when faced with complex or unfamiliar situations.
* Manage complaints in a timely and professional manner, following established procedures.
* Maintain clear communication with line management.
Health & Safety
* Maintain a safe environment through cleaning protocols and daily inspections
* Implement health and safety, infection control, and medication policies
* Report and act on any concerns affecting care or safety
Teamwork & Support
* Promote a respectful and inclusive workplace culture
* Support team cohesion and strive for continuous improvement
* Follow local and national procedures to ensure consistent service quality
* Develop community links and report effectively
* Actively engage and participate in staff meetings
* Act-up on behalf of the Team Lead when required
Training & Development
* Stay informed of legislative changes in legislation including, but not limited to, the health sector, disability sector, health and safety etc.
* Complete all mandatory and refresher training in a timely manner
* Seek opportunities for professional growth and development
Personal & Administrative
* Implement Inclusive Living policies and procedures
* Carry out duties and programmes efficiently
* Maintain clinical and administrative records as required by legislation
* Assist other departments with required data collection
* Produce reports and contribute to quality assurance
Benefits of Working for Inclusive Living:*
* 84 hours per fortnight
* 7 day/night roster
* Competitive Salary
* Annual Leave: 20 Days per annum
* Pension Scheme
* Excellent staffing ratios
* Bike to Work Scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme
* On-site parking
* For further details, please see our website,
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From €34,036.00 per year
Benefits:
* Bike to work scheme
* Company pension
* Employee assistance program
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person