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 part time Social Care Worker to join our team to support our service 24 hours per week. The post holder will report directly to the Orchard Fostering Team Leader and will support the Team Leader in achieving the aims set for the Service within organisational polices and in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements. Focusing on providing the highest possible standards of care, support, and protection for children while collaborating with colleagues to meet these objectives.
Location:
We welcome applicants nationwide, though candidates located in Carlow, Westmeath, Kildare, Louth, Longford, Laois, Dublin & Wicklow or surrounding areas, would be most suitable for the role due to travel requirements.
Closing Date for Applications:
Friday, 20th Feb 2026
Essential Requirements
* A recognised qualification in Social Care or appropriate recognised qualification through CORU. Evidence of application to CORU will be necessary.
* Previous experience in the foster care field is desirable but not mandatory. Ideally, post graduate experience of working directly with children, young people and families.
* High standard of report writing skills and computer literacy.
* Full driver's license and access to own vehicle, as travel will be required for this post.
* Experience of facilitation of training is desirable.
Main Responsibilities
* To take a flexible and creative approach understanding individuals needs and engaging in activities while working with children, young people, and foster families.
* Provide direct support work to children, engage in supervised family visits and offer support to foster carers as required.
* To facilitate respite and educational workshops with children, young people, and foster families.
* Maintain detailed records of sessions, meetings, including progress and reporting findings to relevant teams as required while adhering to organisational standards and confidentiality protocols.
* Communicate closely with the Support Team Leader and work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders via regular meetings and detailed reports as required.
* Taking responsibility for specific aspects of the service such as children's health promotion, links with education and community involvement.
* To undertake recording of work including computerised recording in compliance with the company's recording policy and standards.
* Complying with childcare legislation, regulations, and child protection procedures, as well as undertaking mandatory training related to the Children's First Act 2015.
* Staying informed about Orchard Fostering policies and procedures to ensure adherence.
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
About Us
The Orchard Care Group is a wholly Irish owned company dedicated to providing the best possible care, supports and outcomes for children, young people, and adults in Ireland across a range of settings and locations, in fostering, disability and mainstream residential services.
The Group brings together three leading brands in Irish social care – Orchard Residential, Orchard Community Care and Orchard Fostering.