Kerry Social Farming Alterenative Respite Programme Leader

SOUTH KERRY DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP CLG

Wishes to recruit

KERRY SOCIAL FARMING ALTERNATIVE RESPITE PROGRAMME LEADER

The Kerry Social Farming Alternative Respite programme will consist of a broad range of structured, non-residential activities designed to support people with disabilities and provide additional day time or evening alternative respite opportunities for their families depending on the activities organised. The programme will make use of local resources, farms, and community venues to create welcoming, inclusive, and enjoyable spaces for social farming participants, host farmers, and people with disabilities. Activities will be community-based and accessible, ensuring participants can engage meaningfully in a supportive environment.

This initiative will build on the strong links, partnerships, and networks developed over time by Kerry Social Farming. It will draw on the experience, knowledge, and strengths established since Kerry Social Farming was first introduced in 2013, ensuring a high-quality, well-managed, and sustainable alternative respite service. This alternative respite will give people on the KSF waiting list an opportunity to see farming and farming business in operation. It will also allow them to engage with the current Social Farming participants and host farmers.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Prior experience of working with individuals with a disability or previous social care experience.

• Experience of developing and implementing respite activities for groups of people with disabilities in Co. Kerry.

• Experience of developing and implementing Person Centre Plan (PCP) for people with disabilities.

• A relevant third level qualification in social care, social sciences, disability studies, occupational therapy or related field, or equivalent years of professional experience.

• Understanding of issues around disability and social care needs.

• Understanding of Kerry Social Farming project.

• Knowledge of New Directions.

• Knowledge of agriculture/general farm work and experience in dealing with farmers.

• Knowledge and experience of working with community groups.

• An understanding of community rural development principles.

• Ability to coordinate logistics and manage multiple tasks efficiently.

• Excellent communication & inter-personal skills.

• Computer literacy and excellent report writing skills.

• Full clean driving licence with access to own transport.

The position is full-time (37.5 hours per week) and will be based at one of the SKDP Offices in Cahersiveen, Killorglin, Killarney or Kenmare with a fixed-term contract for a period of 12 months.

Salary scale for the position is €32,182 to €44,931 per annum for a 37.5 hour week.

To apply, please complete the Application Form which may be downloaded from SKDP Vacancies https://skdp.ie/skdp-vacancies/

Only typed applications received by email and on the official application form will be accepted – CV’s will not be considered.

Closing Date: Not later than 5pm on Friday, 22nd May 2026

South Kerry Development Partnership CLG is an equal opportunities employer which welcomes applications from any individuals with the relevant skills and abilities to help make its diverse workforce more effective.