Social Care Team Leader – Best Care Residential (New Service Opening in Donegal)
Location: Moville, Co. Donegal
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: March / April 2026 (flexible, early induction available)
About Best Care
Best Care Residential Ltd is a purpose-driven organisation establishing high-quality, trauma-informed children's residential services in Donegal.
Our mission is to create safe, supportive homes for young people aged 12–17 that foster belonging, trust and independence.
We are guided by our values of Belonging, Excellence, Support and Trust (B.E.S.T.), and we are currently developing our first centre – Mill Bridge House, Moville.
Our practice will be informed by the Welltree Model of Care, a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach focused on relationships and recovery.
The Role
We are recruiting three Team Leaders to join our founding care team.
Reporting to the Deputy Manager and Home Manager, you will provide on-shift leadership and support to Social Care Workers, ensuring the delivery of safe, consistent and therapeutic care to young people.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and support staff during shifts, modelling best practice and trauma-informed care.
* Promote a safe, caring and structured environment that meets each young person's individual needs.
* Ensure daily records, reports and risk assessments are accurate and up to date.
* Participate in care planning, reviews and multi-disciplinary meetings.
* Supervise and mentor Social Care Workers and students.
* Support regulatory compliance (HIQA/Tusla standards) and fire/health-and-safety checks.
* Contribute to staff training, debriefs and reflective practice sessions.
Qualifications and Experience
* QQI Level 7 or 8 qualification in Social Care or a related discipline (Psychology, Youth & Community, Social Science, Nursing, Counselling, etc.).
* Minimum 2 years' post-qualification experience working with children and young people in residential care.
* Strong knowledge of HIQA/Tusla National Standards and Children First legislation.
* Excellent communication and leadership skills with a collaborative approach.
* CORU registration or eligibility required.
* Full driving licence and Garda vetting essential.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits
* Flexible start date (March/April 2026) with early induction opportunities.
* Comprehensive training in the Welltree Model of Care and ongoing professional development.
* Supportive leadership team committed to staff wellbeing and career progression.
* Opportunity to shape a new service from the ground up and contribute to lasting impact for young people.
To Apply
Please submit your CV and a short cover letter outlining your experience and motivation for the role to
For further information visit
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: €40,000.00-€52,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
* How many years' experience do you have working in children's residential care?
Work authorisation:
* Ireland (required)
Work Location: In person