Relief Care Support Worker

Purpose of the Role

The Care Support Worker plays a vital role in assisting individuals receiving Cheshire Ireland services with all aspects of daily living in accordance with their evolving care plans. The primary goal is to support individuals in living fulfilling lives while promoting their independence, dignity, and social inclusion.

This role requires the establishment and maintenance of respectful and equal relationships with individuals with disabilities, ensuring that all support provided aligns with Cheshire Ireland’s values, ethos, and standards.

Key ResponsibilitiesPersonal Care

Provide assistance with personal care needs, including but not limited to:

• Showering/bathing
• Toileting
• Personal grooming

Daily Living Support

Support individuals with daily activities such as:

• Assisting with medication administration in line with individual care plans and policies.
• Supporting dressing and undressing.
• Driving or assisting with transport arrangements for medical, social, and work-related appointments.
• Providing mealtime assistance, including manual feeding support and PEG feeding where required.
• Assisting with money management in line with policy guidelines.

Community Integration

Encourage and facilitate social inclusion by:

• Helping individuals discover and engage in community activities.
• Supporting attendance at social events and regular community gatherings.
• Assisting individuals in establishing and maintaining meaningful social connections.
• Acting as an advocate when necessary.

Record Keeping & Observation

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation, including observation records and person-centred care plans.
• Report and document any adverse events as required.

General Clinical Support

Provide support in clinical care areas when appropriate, including but not limited to:

• Wound care
• Bowel management
• Insulin administration
• Suctioning
• Catheter care and other interventions as outlined in care plans and supervisory guidance.

Communication

• Ensure effective verbal and written communication with service users, colleagues, and external professionals.
• Accurately relay information and updates to the appropriate parties.

Continuous Improvement & Reflective Practice

• Stay informed about Cheshire Ireland policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Regularly reflect on practice to promote professional growth and service improvement.

Compliance & Confidentiality

• Adhere to all organisational policies, procedures, and codes of conduct.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding service users' information and disclose information only in accordance with guidelines.
• Seek guidance from the line manager when unsure about confidentiality matters.

Health & Safety

• Follow all health and safety protocols, including manual handling and hygiene procedures.
• Ensure a clean and safe working environment.

Shift Coordination

When required, take on shift coordination responsibilities, including:

• Acting as the main point of contact during rostered shifts.
• Ensuring duties are carried out to a high standard.
• Conducting handover meetings.
• Managing out-of-hours maintenance and rostering issues.

Employee Responsibilities

• Demonstrate good attendance and comply with all employment policies.
• Maintain a professional appearance and dress appropriately for duties.
• Attend team meetings, performance reviews, and training sessions as required.

Competencies

This role aligns with the eight Core Cheshire Ireland Competencies:

• Person-Centred Focus
• Service Focus
• Teamwork
• Personal Accountability
• Communication (Verbal & Written)
• Interpersonal Skills
• Flexibility & Adaptability
• Personal Effectiveness

Additional Role-Specific Competencies

• Problem-Solving
• Decision-Making

Required Skills & Qualifications

• QQI Level 5 in Healthcare Support (or willingness to complete within two years), QQI Level 6 in Social Care, or a Nursing qualification.
• Experience supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Full manual driving licence or willingness to obtain one.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Eligibility to work in Ireland.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Basic IT skills (experience with online care management systems is an advantage).
• Integrity, trustworthiness, and a positive attitude.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and continuous improvement.
• Dedication to person-centred, rights-based services.
• Candidates with relevant experience but no formal qualifications may be considered if they commit to completing QQI Level 5 Healthcare Support within two years of employment.

Personal Attributes

• Integrity and trustworthiness.
• Positive and proactive attitude.
• Empathy and mindfulness.
• Respect for dignity and diversity.
• Composure in challenging situations.
• Commitment to person-centred, rights-based service delivery.

Flexibility & Additional Duties

The nature of this role requires flexibility. Employees must be prepared to undertake additional tasks as assigned by the organisation.

This role profile is subject to periodic review and may be amended as necessary to meet evolving service needs.

Why Work for Us

• Flexible working hours.
• Annual salary of €34,782.69 to €40,418.19 (pro rata and dependent on experience).
• Premium payments for unsocial hours.
• Career development opportunities.
• Induction and ongoing training through the Cheshire Academy.
• Free onsite parking.