Care Assistant Day Services

Purpose

As a Care Assistant in Day Services, you will play an important role in supporting individuals to engage in meaningful and fulfilling day activities. Working as part of a supportive team, you will provide person-centred support that respects each individuals dignity, choices and goals.

You will have the opportunity to make a positive difference each day - supporting individuals to build confidence, develop life skills and actively participate in their community, in line with New Directions principles.

Dept / Location(s): Day Services across SOS Kilkenny

Salary Scale

Linked to HSE Consolidated Pay Scale: Care Assistant (Intellectual Disability Agency)(March 2025)

Range per annum: €33,699.00 - €46,984.00

Hours

Option 1: 37.5 hours per week

Option 2: 30 hours per week

What We Offer

• A rewarding and meaningful career where you can make a real difference.
• Permanent, full-time and part-time positions.
• Competitive salary aligned with HSE Consolidated Pay Scales.
• Pension Scheme and Death in Service benefit.
• Generous Annual Leave Entitlements.
• Sick Pay Scheme
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Educational Assistance Scheme.
• Bike to Work Scheme.
• Employee Discounts.
• Savings Scheme.
• Award winning Health & Wellbeing Programmes.
• Award winning Company Training.
• A supportive, values-driven multidisciplinary team.
• Positive and supportive work environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver high-quality, person-centred support in line with each individual's needs, preferences and goals.
• Act as a Key Worker, supporting the development, implementation and review of individual support plans.
• Promote independence and autonomy, enabling individuals to reach their full potential.
• Support individuals with daily living activities, including personal and intimate care.
• Encourage and support community inclusion, participation in activities, and opportunities for new experiences.
• Communicate effectively with individuals in a way that is accessible and meaningful to them.
• Use low arousal approaches and positive supports in day-to-day practices.
• Support individuals with financial management and personal responsibilities in line with organisational policies.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, families and external professionals to ensure consistent, high-quality support.
• Contribute to a culture of safety, quality and continuous improvement.
• Ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of individuals, in line with HIQA standards and organisational policies.
• Support individuals with their health and wellbeing needs, including the safe administration and management of medication in line with organisational policies.
• Maintain accurate records and actively engage in training, development and reflective practice.
• Promote a culture of safeguarding, respect and accountability, responding appropriately to any concerns.

Qualifications:

• QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare (all 8 modules completed)

Experience:

• Experience in the field of intellectual disabilities or autism is an advantage.
• Experience working in a person-centred environment.
• Familiarity with positive behaviour support and low arousal approaches is desirable.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Awareness of key worker role and philosophy of supporting people with intellectual disabilities.
• Knowledge of Health Act 2007, HIQA, National Standards and other regulatory requirements.
• An understanding of person-centred and human rights based approaches.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Ability to use initiative, problem-solve and work independently.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Good organisational and IT skills.

Additional Requirements:

• Full, clean Irish driving license.

Reporting To: Residential Manager

Contract Type: One Year Fixed Term

Diversity & Inclusion

SOS Kilkenny is an equal opportunities employer committed to an inclusive, diverse and respectful workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Safeguarding

All offers of employment are subject to Garda Vetting and reference checks.

Application

Please submit your CV, including explanations for any gaps in employment. Shortlisting will apply.