Social Worker – Children in care
Social Worker – Children in Care
My client is seeking a qualified an experienced Social Worker to join their Children in Care Team based in Ennis. The role involves providing high-quality, child-centered social work services to children and young people in care, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with foster carers, birth families, and other professionals to achieve the best outcomes for children in care.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the allocated social worker for children in care, managing a caseload in line with national standards and statutory requirements.
- Develop and regularly review comprehensive care plans that promote the child’s welfare and reflect their voice.
- Support children through key transitions, including placement changes, reunifications, or moving to independent living.
- Conduct thorough assessments of children’s needs, identifying strengths and areas for intervention.
- Provide direct support to children in care, addressing emotional, developmental, and behavioral needs.
- Work closely with foster carers, offering guidance, support, and intervention to sustain placements.
- Collaborate with birth families, where appropriate, to maintain meaningful relationships for children in care.
- Advocate for the needs and rights of children in care within multidisciplinary teams, court settings, and educational environments.
- Participate in case conferences, statutory reviews, and court proceedings, preparing high-quality reports and evidence as required.
- Monitor and manage risks to children in care, escalating concerns and implementing safeguards in line with policies.
- Engage in supervision, team meetings, and ongoing professional training.
- Contribute to the development of best practices within the Children in Care Team.
Experience of Social Worker – Children in Care
- Degree in Social Work (or equivalent qualification) recognized by CORU.
- Current CORU registration as a Social Worker.
- Relevant experience in children’s social care, ideally in a children in care or child protection setting.
- In-depth understanding of Irish legislation, policy, and practice standards relating to children in care.
Key Skills and Competencies
- Child-Centered Practice: Ability to advocate for children’s best interests, ensuring their voice informs decision-making.
- Analytical and Decision-Making Skills: Strong ability to assess complex situations and develop effective care plans.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills, with experience in report writing and engaging with children and families empathetically.
- Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary and interagency teams.
- Resilience: Capable of working under pressure and managing emotional challenges in a sensitive role.
If you are interested in this role, please click apply or contact jreid@medforce.ie
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