Social Worker – Children & Family Services
Social Worker – Children & Family Services
The Social Worker for Children & Family Services will be responsible for providing comprehensive social work support to children and families in County Kerry. The role involves assessing the needs of children and families, delivering tailored interventions, and working with various stakeholders to ensure the safety, well-being, and protection of children. This position also includes supporting families in crisis, safeguarding vulnerable children, and promoting family welfare in accordance with Tusla and national child protection standards.
Key Responsibilities – Social Worker for Children & Family Services
- Conduct assessments to identify risks and needs of children and families.
- Develop and implement child protection plans, ensuring that the welfare and safety of children are paramount.
- Respond to child protection concerns in line with Tusla’s policies and guidelines.
- Provide support to families in crisis through tailored interventions.
- Promote the welfare of children within their family context where appropriate.
- Offer emotional and practical support to parents, caregivers, and children, empowering them to address challenges.
- Manage a caseload of children and families, ensuring timely and thorough assessments.
- Regularly review cases, updating care plans and interventions as necessary.
- Prepare and present reports for court cases, case reviews, and family assessments.
- Liaise and collaborate with other professionals, including health services, educational institutions, and the Gardaí, to ensure a coordinated approach to child welfare and protection.
- Attend case conferences, strategy meetings, and inter-agency discussions to support the holistic care of children.
- Provide immediate interventions in cases of family breakdown, child abuse, or neglect.
- Ensure that children in care or at risk are placed in safe, appropriate environments.
- Act as an advocate for children and families, ensuring their voices are heard in all decision-making processes.
- Empower families by facilitating access to support services, including housing, education, and mental health services.
- Maintain detailed and accurate records of all interactions, assessments, and interventions in line with Tusla standards.
- Ensure confidentiality and sensitivity in managing personal and sensitive data.
Qualifications & Skills Required – Social Worker for Children & Family Services
- Essential Qualifications:
- A recognised professional qualification in social work (e.g., NQSW, CQSW, or equivalent).
- Registration or eligibility for registration with CORU as a Social Worker in Ireland.
- A minimum of one years of post-qualification experience in child protection, family support, or similar social work settings.
- Experience in crisis intervention, case management, and working with vulnerable children and families.
- Key Competencies:
- Strong understanding of child protection legislation, national standards, and policies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
- Resilience and ability to manage challenging or emotionally charged situations.
- Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage a diverse and complex caseload.
- Proficiency in report writing and case documentation.
To apply please contact jreid@medforce.ie
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