Children's Residential Care Worker

About Odyssey Social Care

Odyssey Social Care Ltd is a prominent provider of residential care services for children in Ireland. Dedicated to delivering trauma-informed, high-quality support, the organisation employs the Odyssey Model of Care, featuring therapeutic interventions, educational engagement, emotional wellbeing focus, and positive role modelling. Its mission centers on empowering young people to achieve their full potential within a secure, structured, and nurturing residential setting situated in Brook Lodge, Thurles, County Tipperary.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Children’s Residential Care Worker (alternatively known as Social Care Worker, Residential Social Care Worker, or Youth Residential Worker) to join our expanding team. This frontline position involves supporting youth with complex and challenging behaviours and emotional difficulties through personalised care plans and behaviour support strategies. The role fosters development in life skills, emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience among young people.

Responsibilities

• Create and apply Behaviour Support Plans, Placement Plans, and conduct risk assessments.
• Deliver trauma-informed, child-centered residential care tailored to individual needs.
• Assist young people with educational support, homework, daily routines, and school participation.
• Encourage development of independence, positive behaviour, and emotional self-management.
• Maintain detailed records, incident logs, and daily reports accurately.
• Engage in communication with families, social workers, educational institutions, and referral bodies.
• Participate in regular team meetings, supervision sessions, professional training, and contribute to service enhancement.
• Support household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and nurturing a welcoming home environment.
• Manage petty cash responsibly and ensure adherence to financial protocols.
• Uphold safeguarding standards, child protection policies, TUSLA regulations, confidentiality, and internal company rules.
• Help maintain a safe and structured community within the residential setting.

Educational and Professional Requirements

• Minimum Level 7 qualification in Social Care or equivalent qualifications including QQI Level 8 Psychology, QQI Level 7 in Youth & Community, Social Science or related areas.
• Professional qualifications in Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy, Counselling/Psychotherapy, Addiction Counselling, Early Years Care, Teaching (excluding TEFL), Nursing, Applied Policing, or Custodial Care are also accepted.
• Full, valid manual driving licence in Ireland.
• Experience working with adolescents exhibiting challenging behaviour.
• Familiarity with National Standards for Children’s Residential Centres.
• Right to live and work legally in Ireland.
• CORU registration authorising use of the title ‘Social Care Worker’.

Employee Benefits and Company Culture

• Flexible shift rosters balancing sleepover and day shifts to support work-life integration.
• Access to core professional training including Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, safeguarding, and trauma informed practices.
• Opportunities for team building, social events, and educational assistance grants.
• Health insurance contributions and life insurance benefits.
• Progressive pay scale with incremental increases.
• Immediate access to an Employee Assistance Programme supporting employees and their families from day one.
• A supportive, collaborative team environment fostering career development.
• Clear pathways for professional advancement within the organisation.
• Organisational commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and social responsibility as a Certified B Corporation.

Additional Information

The company values safety, trust, quality, empowerment, inclusion, and measurable social impact. The Odyssey Way care model is holistic, trauma-sensitive, and individual-focused. Employees become part of a dynamic team led by CEO Stacey McGrath, where ongoing training and career progression are priorities. The role offers a salary range from €37,440 to €41,184 per annum. The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 30th September 2026.