Relief Support Worker

Purpose of the Role

To work with the Manager to assist in the day-to-day running of the Drop-In Service on a locum basis, covering staff absences, leave, etc. The service is open six days per week.

The Support Worker will be responsible for:

• Processing referrals.
• Conducting assessments.
• Support planning and implementation of support plans.
• Engaging with service users.
• Supporting service users.

The Drop-In Centre offers services that support and improve the quality of life of people in need in Limerick City and the surrounding area. It provides person-centred, non-directive, non-judgmental services that meet the needs of the whole person, including those experiencing homelessness, addiction and other challenges in their lives.

A key goal of the Centre is to help prevent the progression to homelessness for those who are in accommodation but are vulnerable to becoming homeless.

Guidance and Authority

The post holder is expected to operate with considerable autonomy, referring matters to their line manager when:

• Significant resistance is encountered in implementing good practices or policies.
• Actions may place stakeholders such as children, vulnerable adults, scheme participants, volunteers or the Society's reputation at risk.
• Decisions could substantially impact the workload of others.

Principal Accountabilities

The role holder will be responsible for:

Service User Support

• Ensure the practical needs of service users are met by providing supports such as:
• Identify appropriate supports for clients by:
• Refer service users to appropriate services based on identified needs.

Quality

• Comply with and implement Putting People First quality standards in line with Society policies and procedures to ensure individual rights are upheld.
• Ensure standards of professional care and practice are maintained in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Ensure all individuals who attend the service are treated with dignity and respect.
• Conduct monitoring, evaluation and reviews of the service in line with established procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with organisational policies and procedures.

Security and Crisis Management

• Identify potential risk situations and report them to the Drop-In Centre Manager.
• Take appropriate action to minimise and report risks.
• Manage and resolve difficult situations calmly and professionally when they arise.
• Participate in crisis intervention training provided by SVP.
• Adhere to the principles and practices of crisis intervention within the service.

Health and Safety

• Report all health and safety concerns or issues to the Drop-In Centre Manager.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations, policies and procedures within the Centre.

Administration

• Ensure administration, files and paperwork are maintained in line with SVP policies and procedures.
• Prepare reports as requested by management.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for all service users.

Liaison

• Liaise with external agencies on behalf of service users and the service when required, including:
• Work effectively as part of a team while also demonstrating the ability to work independently.

Safeguarding

• Follow SVP safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Maintain awareness of best practices in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

Challenges

There are a number of challenges in this role, largely determined by the scale, complexity, voluntary nature and high levels of local autonomy within the Society.

• Ensuring confidentiality at all times.
• Ensuring a friendly and supportive atmosphere at all times.

Other Information

In addition to the duties and responsibilities listed above, the job holder may be required from time to time to perform other duties as deemed reasonable and necessary by the employer.

The job holder may also be required from time to time to work or attend training or meetings at another location. As much notice as is reasonably practicable will be given of any such requirement or change.

Employees are responsible for notifying their manager in writing of any statutory rest period or break to which they were entitled but were unable to avail of on a particular occasion, together with the reason for not availing of such rest period or break, within one week.

Education, Experience, Knowledge and Skills RequiredEducation

• Level 5 in Social Care or Community Development (Essential).
• BA in Social Care/Community Development (NFQ Level 7 or higher), equivalent qualification or currently working towards one (Desirable).
• Certificate in Homelessness Prevention and Intervention (FETAC Level 5) or a FETAC Level 5 Healthcare qualification (Desirable).

Experience

• Minimum of one year's experience working in a Social Care or Community Development setting (Essential).
• Working knowledge and understanding of addiction and mental health issues (Essential).
• Experience of working in homeless services (Desirable).

Skills

• Active listening skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team and with volunteers.
• Ability to work on your own initiative.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent report writing and record-keeping skills.
• Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Word and experience using databases.

Knowledge

• Understanding of the needs of people experiencing homelessness (Essential).
• Knowledge of local homeless strategies and forums, and an understanding of how they relate to current and future service provision for people experiencing homelessness within the locality or region.
• Knowledge of the Society and its mission and values.
• Knowledge of the needs and issues affecting people experiencing poverty and disadvantage.

Personal Attributes

The person must also demonstrate the following personal attributes.

Salary

€17.67 per hour