Company Information and Introduction:
Company Information and Introduction:
About Inclusive Living Ireland
The values and vision of Inclusive Living are built on three simple promises:
We are a rights-based, neuroaffirmative, and trauma-informed service supporting adults with complex needs, including intellectual and physical disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injuries.
Guided by the social model of disability, we believe people are disabled not by their differences, but by societal barriers. Our work centres on trust, co-regulation, and authentic human connection.
We don’t just provide care — we build relationships, promote independence, protect individuals, and uphold integrity in everything we do.
Key Responsibilities and Duties:
Key Responsibilities and Duties:
The Role of Direct Support Worker
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Worker (DSW) to join our residential community services for adults in Cavan. The successful candidate will support the day-to-day running of our residential centre, working closely with the Social Care Team Lead. They will help ensure compliance with HIQA and HSE standards while delivering person-centred care in line with Inclusive Living’s values.
Key responsibilities include:
Ensuring a safe, homely, and empowering environment
Acting as a consistent point of contact for service users
Supporting individuals to navigate services and coordinate their care plans
Building meaningful relationships with service users, families, and multidisciplinary teams
Attending meetings and contributing to care planning
Advocating for service users and liaising with external services
Providing emotional and practical support across all aspects of daily life
Duties and Responsibilities
Professional & Regulatory
Facilitate person-centred planning, case reviews, and multidisciplinary meetings.
Serve as a keyworker, providing consistent support to individuals by:
Coordinating care plans and services.
Holding regular meetings and developing plans.
Advocating on behalf of individuals and liaising with external services.
Offering emotional support across all areas of life.
Promote active community participation including in education, and employment in line with each resident’s preferences.
Implement and monitor care plans, risk assessments, and communication passports; promptly report any changes or concerns to management.
Support residents in attending appointments and communicate outcomes to the Person in Charge (PIC) or relevant professionals, respecting residents’ wishes.
Facilitate weekly residents’ meetings to encourage engagement and feedback.
Assist residents with intimate care needs in accordance with their individual care plans.
Support daily living activities including meal planning, food preparation, and medication management based on assessed needs.
Educate and empower residents in self-care to enhance independence and life skills.
Maintain accurate and compliant records for service users and staff, in line with HIQA standards and legislative requirements.
Collaborate with service users, families, carers, the multidisciplinary team (MDT), and external agencies to ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centred care.
Uphold dignity and respect in all interactions with service users and colleagues.
Ensure the centre remains compliant with HIQA regulations and standards; stay informed of regulatory updates.
Contribute to the development and implementation of care protocols, standards, and guidelines.
Adhere to professional standards regarding confidentiality, ethics, and legal obligations.
Operate within the Scope of Practice; seek guidance from management when faced with complex or unfamiliar situations.
Manage complaints in a timely and professional manner, following established procedures.
Maintain clear communication with line management.
Health & Safety
Maintain a safe environment through cleaning protocols and daily inspections
Implement health and safety, infection control, and medication policies
Report and act on any concerns affecting care or safety
Teamwork & Support
Promote a respectful and inclusive workplace culture
Support team cohesion and strive for continuous improvement
Follow local and national procedures to ensure consistent service quality
Develop community links and report effectively
Actively engage and participate in staff meetings
Act-up on behalf of the Team Lead when required
Training & Development
Stay informed of legislative changes in legislation including, but not limited to, the health sector, disability sector, health and safety etc.
Complete all mandatory and refresher training in a timely manner
Seek opportunities for professional growth and development
Personal & Administrative
Implement Inclusive Living policies and procedures
Carry out duties and programmes efficiently
Maintain clinical and administrative records as required by legislation
Assist other departments with required data collection
Produce reports and contribute to quality assurance
Key Skills and Competencies:
Key Skills and Competencies:
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates must have:
QQI (FETAC) Level 5 qualification in Social/Healthcare or a related field, or an equivalent or higher qualification
Previous experience in disability services or social care is welcome
A full driving license is desirable but not essential
Skills Needed for This Role
Candidates must be able to:
Promote professional relationships and effective teamwork
Demonstrate experience in supporting vulnerable individuals
Demonstrate a commitment to self-development and professionalism
Communicate clearly and confidently
Apply relevant IT skills in daily operations
Maintain resilience and composure in a dynamic care environment
Work independently while knowing when to seek support
Benefits of Working with Inclusive Living*
Competitive Salary
Competitive annual leave entitlement
A comprehensive training and induction programme
Opportunities for career progression
Pension Scheme
Health Plan
Employee Assistance Programme
Bike to Work Scheme
Regular supervision and ongoing professional development opportunities
On-site parking
* For further details, please see our website, www.inclusiveliving.ie
Two professional references will be required for the successful candidate, one of which must be from the candidate’s last employer.
