Social Care Worker, Residential

Mission Statement of L’Arche:

“To make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities revealed through mutually transforming relationships. To engage in our diverse cultures, working together to build a more humane society. To foster an environment in communities that is inspired by the core values of our founding story, and that responds to the changing needs of our members.”

Social Care Worker - L’Arche Kilkenny

We are currently recruiting for a Social Care Workerto work as part of our Residential and Community team. These are a full time fixed term 1 year contract positions for a basic 39hr a week additional supplements for Sleepovers, Sundays, Bank Holidays and Christmas time dependent on continued HSE funding. The applicant must have a minimum of a Fetac /QQI 7, BA in Social Care studies in Healthcare/Social care or social care degree. There is a 6 month probationary period applying to the employment. The post is subject to Garda vetting.

The Social Care Worker will assist in all aspects of daily living in line with the needs, will and preference of the individual and as outlined in an agreed care plan. The person will be responsible, reliable and competent in household management and have the ability to create and maintain a homely and supportive environment. They will be required to take an active part in ensuring that the day-to-day operations of the Service reflect the ethos of L’Arche and that all staff are meeting the needs of the individuals supported by the Service.

The Social Care Worker should be flexible and have the ability to work as a member of a team. They must be willing and able to work rosters that include both days, nights, sleepovers, late evenings and week-ends.

Job Purpose & Role

· You will be accountable to the House Leader and Person in Charge.

· To be responsible for the daily routines and welfare of the Core Members within the Residential setting.Provide individualized, person-cantered support to adults with intellectual disabilities, ensuring their dignity, autonomy, and personal preferences are prioritized.

· To ensure that the Residential Service is run in keeping with the ethos and spirituality of L’Arche as outlined in our Identity and Mission Statements.

· To promote the dignity and image of the Core Members.

· To maintain the Health and Safety of the working area, maintenance of written records, monitoring accidents, incidents, reporting and recording them appropriately

In Relation to the Core Members

· Ensure a person centred approach in the delivery of independent living skills, occupation and leisure activities, communication, personal care and behaviour support plans

· Develop positive affirmative interpersonal relationships with each Core Member.

· To ensure that the Core members Care Plans are observed and maintained so L’Arche can achieve its goals and objectives as a service for adults with intellectual disabilities.

· Ensure that each individual is supported in their social integration, social kills and to pursue and maintain their individual hobbies, interests.

· Personal care – dressing, bathing, toileting, assistance with eating, sleeping support, first aid, and health promotion.

· Ensure that the personal clothing of individuals is looked after and cared for and that the household and bed linen is changed and laundered regularly.

· Ensuring a healthy and nutritious diet is offered and takes into account their individual choice.

· To encourage and promote the participation of individuals in buying, preparing, cooking of meals and packed lunches as required.

· Promoting awareness and supporting residents in their required personal hygiene and personal appearance standards.

· Physical support – moving and handling, fire safety, cleaning, laundry, infection control, mobility and communication needs.

· Liaising with the Day Service to make sure house to work transitions are managed according to the individual’s needs.

· Encourage and promote the involvement of individuals in the prudent management of their personal monies in line with the Core Members Money Policy.

· Ensure that the religious and pastoral needs of each individual are adequately supported.

· Administer prescribed medications and maintain all required records in keeping with organisational policy.

In Relation to the House Leader

· To assist the House Leader and Deputy House Leader in regard to compiling and presenting reports as required.

· Assisting the House Leader in ensuring that the day to day running of the house are person centred and are in line with value-based practices.

· Ensure immediate and accurate reporting of all matters of concern to the House Leader and Person in Charge (PIC).

In Relation to the House/ Community

· Ensure all medical appointments are coordinated and supported.

· Participating in driving duties around the needs of the residents and the house needs.

· Utilise the transport services available to the service area and advise the appropriate staff on transport needs.

· Liaise with the Day Services Coordinator on social and recreational activities of residents using Day Service facilities.

· Ensure that buildings are well maintained and in good repair and notify any issues about the home to the House Leader or Person in Charge.

· Ensure that all reports, timesheets and financial statements are accurate, completed and returned on time.

· Maintain complete and accurate records for each person to include the personal needs assessments, risk assessments, incidents and notifiable events, file notes, communication plans, behavioural management support, health action plans, medication management and financial records.

· To work with the volunteer Live in Assistants for the smooth running of the Residential Service.

Essential skills and experience

• Experienced in working with people who have an intellectual disability.
• Fluent English and excellent written and communication skills.
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.
• Contribute by working closely with other members of the staff team, helping promote good practice, taking part in staff meetings, and contributing to meeting objectives.
• Knowledge or experience of HIQA audits.
• Ability to ensure a safe work environment
• Good hygiene and infection practice and knowledge
• Proficient IT skills to include Excel and Word applications.
• Full clean driving license (minimum 2 years).

Applications should include your current Curriculum Vitae, along with a cover letter outlining why you feel you would be suitable for this role.