We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Community Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) Nurse or Allied Health Professional to lead our outpatient group interventions for individuals living with mild-to-moderate dementia. Based in the community, this role focuses on delivering evidence-based psychosocial interventions to enhance cognitive functioning, promote social inclusion, and support independent living.
- Job Title: Community Cognitive Stimulation Therapist (CST)
- Setting: Outpatient Community Clinics / Day Services
- Target Patient Group: Adults living in the community with mild-to-moderate dementia
- Position Type: Part-Time 7.3 hours p/week (Specify hours)
Key Responsibilities
Group Facilitation & Clinical Delivery
- Lead CST Groups: Facilitate structured, 7-week evidence-based CST group cycles (14 themed sessions) for community-dwelling adults.
- Tailor Activities: Adapt multi-sensory activities, word games, music, and current affairs discussions to match the cognitive abilities of the group.
- Promote Connection: Foster a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere that reduces social isolation and encourages meaningful peer interaction.
- Maintain Consistency: Establish a predictable, secure group routine to minimize anxiety and build participant confidence.
Assessment & Community Caseload Management
- Screen Referrals: Evaluate community, GP, and memory clinic referrals to assess suitability for outpatient CST groups.
- Track Outcomes: Perform baseline and post-programme cognitive, mood, and quality-of-life assessments using standardized tools.
- Monitor Wellbeing: Watch for signs of physical decline, delirium, or caregiver burnout, making onward referrals when necessary.
- Document Care: Maintain accurate, up-to-date clinical notes regarding patient attendance, engagement, and progression.
Family Support & Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Support Carers: Provide resources and education to family members, helping them extend cognitive stimulation techniques into the home.
- Community Awareness: Act as an advocate for dementia-friendly community initiatives and promote the benefits of early psychosocial intervention.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Professional Licensure
- Graduate Degree: Registered General (RGN)/Registered Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse (RPN) or Allied Health Professional (OT / Social Worker / Physiotherapist).
- Active Registration: Current, valid registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) or equivalent regulatory body.
Experience & Specialised Training
- Dementia Care: Minimum of 2 years of post-qualification experience working with older adults or community dementia services.
- CST Certification: Certified training in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy facilitation is highly desirable (training will be provided to the ideal candidate).
Core Competencies
- Communication: Masterful verbal and non-verbal communication skills adapted for individuals with progressive cognitive impairment.
- Group Management: Proven ability to manage group dynamics, balance varying participation levels, and de-escalate responsive behaviours.
- Independence: Strong organizational and time-management skills required to coordinate community outpatient clinics efficiently.
Full, clean driving licence required.
