We would like to invite applications for the following Full-Time (39 hour) , Fixed Term Contract (Covering Leave) role,
Young Adult Support Worker
Briarhill, Galway
IWA is committed to promoting, maintaining and adding to our diverse and inclusive work environment
As a Young Adult Support Worker, the post holder will be expected to support the delivery of services to School Leavers Service participants with physical disabilities as part of Irish Wheelchair Association’s services based in Galway.
The objectives of our services are to provide pathways for people with disabilities to participate fully in the community, by means of establishing developmental, personal, and social inclusion programmes.
This will include supporting individual young adults to identify and work towards their personal goals, and to facilitate a range of activities, such as training workshops, personal development work, day trips and social activities, and linking with services and facilities within individuals’ local communities. You will be also required to undertake and ensure the execution of such other tasks/duties as deemed necessary to the successful implementation of young adult services.
Liaison
Close liaison is required with the School Leaver Service Support Officers and Rehabilitative Training team and Community Centre Coordinators and team.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Support Service Manager and Support Officers to implement a range of group workshops and activities based on the choices and needs of young adults.
Support individual young adults in line with the Association’s person centred approach and through Personal Goals work.
Support young adults involved in Rehabilitative Training activities
Assist with safe transportation in line with requirements of the Transport Handbook guidelines
Assist young adults in all aspects of personal care and daily living as identified by each individual
Accompany and support young adults on outings, social trips and holidays as required
Ensure that your work and interactions with others is such that it promotes and enhances the independence of students/young people
Prepare and maintain hard copy and online records as required by the Service Manager/Support Officers
Undertake training as directed by the Service Manager/Support Officers
Actively ensure that standards and practices regarding health and safety are fully adhered to in all activities, and in the center itself. Record and report all hazards or accidents to the Service Manager/Support Officers
Carry out other duties and/or responsibilities which may be assigned to you from time to time
Ensure that your responsibilities to safeguard children and adults from abuse or harm is a core aspect of your role and that IWA’s Safeguarding Policies and Procedures are adhered to.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Training, Experience and Qualifications
QQI level 5 (Major Award – 8 Modules) Care Support or similar qualification is essential.
QQI Major Awards that are deemed relevant to IWA are:
Community Health Services (to include minor components Safety Health at Work and Care Provision Practice)
Health Service Skills (to include minor components in Workplace Statutory Policies Procedures and Care Skills and Care Support)
Health Care Support (to include minor components Safety Health at Work and Care Skills and Care Support)
Youth Work (no specific minor components required)
Full Drivers licence is required
Knowledge and Skills
Previous experience of developing and delivering projects or programmes
Previous experience of working with people with disabilities is required
Knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety regulations, as well as transport safety and standards of use is essential
Previous experience of driving transit vans to transport people with disabilities, or a willingness to do so, would be an advantage
Good organisational skills
Behaviours
The ability to work as part of a team and work on own initiative
An ability to build strong relationships at all levels and show confidence in the team
Strong customer service focus
Competencies
Communicating and Influencing
Motivating and Empowering
Innovation and Creativity
Planning and Organising
Quality and Customer Focus
Remuneration Benefits
Annual salary range €32,961 to €36,691 DOE
Excellent working conditions
Training development opportunities
25 days annual leave per year
Access to Pension Health Schemes
Employee Assistance Service
The closing date for applications is 5 pm Thursday, 2nd July 2026
- The current pay scale is subject to a 2% salary rate increase in 2026, aligning with the recent WRC interim agreement aimed at enhancing pay adjustments within Section 39 organizations.
Documentary evidence of your relevant qualification(s) will be required in advance of or during the recruitment process.
