Support Worker

Role overview

Autism A Chara is recruiting a Support Worker for its respite service in Craanford, County Wexford. This onsite role is scheduled for 39 hours per week and is identified by job reference SW_WILLSP_2306.

What the role involves

The position focuses on delivering person-centred support to people with complex needs. The successful candidate will help with daily routines, provide personal care where needed, encourage community participation, and support the person to build new skills, understand their rights, and make informed choices.

Essential criteria

• A full QQI Level 5 major award in Health/Care is required.
• You should understand the purpose of a Key Worker / Support Worker and the philosophy of supporting people with complex needs.
• Experience or awareness of programme planning and person-centred planning is needed.
• You must be able to work a rota covering evenings, weekends, and waking night duty shifts.
• Permission to work in Ireland is mandatory.

Desirable criteria

• A full, clean Irish driving licence is preferred, along with the ability to drive service vehicles.

Skills and abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Fluency in English.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Patience, kindness, and an engaging approach when supporting others.
• Ability to adjust communication to suit different needs.

Working style and support approach

The ideal candidate will take time to understand each person’s needs and priorities, adapt their style of communication, and provide active, encouraging support. The role requires someone who can balance practical assistance with empathy and respect.

Benefits

• Access to an education support scheme.
• Company pension with employer contribution.
• Sick pay and access to healthcare plans.
• Paid maternity leave.
• Paid paternity leave.
• 22 days of annual leave.
• Higher pay rates for evening and weekend work.
• Bike to work scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Your birthday off.
• Paid breaks.
• Discounts through Cara Pharmacy.
• Development opportunities and clear career progression.

Additional information

A full job specification is available on request. Recruitment agencies are not required for this vacancy; any CVs sent by agencies will be removed and will not be reviewed.

Qualifications and motivation

A QQI Level 5 qualification in Health Care is essential, for example in health, community, or a related care setting. While the qualification is mandatory, a genuine commitment to person-centred support is also important. This is described as a rewarding position with scope to grow your experience, knowledge, and career.