Senior Social Worker

Ability West provides a wide range of high-quality services to children and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism across Galway City and County.Services provided are day, residential, short breaks, community supports, rehabilitative training and multi-disciplinary supports.The ethos of service provision is underpinned by our Vision, Mission, Core Values and Strategic Plan, which is to empower people with disabilities to live self-directed lives in an equal and inclusive society.Each person is supported and valued within an environment which promotes their overall autonomy, health and wellbeing and enables them to reach their potential.Summary of Role:The Senior Social Worker is a key member of the Social Work Department, providing, professional expertise and leadership in line with CORU standards, organisational policies, and national safeguarding frame works.The role involves managing complex casework, providing supervision and guidance to colleagues, and contributing to service development across Ability West.The Senior Social Worker is also expected to act as a reliable deputy for The Head of Social Work when required, undertaking additional tasks or responsibilities as directed, in line with organisational needs and professional standards.The purpose of this job is to carry out a range of duties, in accordance with Ability West's policies and procedures as set out in the General Procedures Manual, Operating Instructions, Work Instructions for the Social Work Department and the organisational Safety Statement, and to work as part of the Social Work TeamDuties and Responsibilities:Provide a professional social work service to individuals and families using Ability West services, with particular emphasis on complex casework and safeguarding.Support the Head of Social Work by taking on additional delegated responsibilities where appropriate, ensuing continuity of service and departmental leadership.Supervise and support other social workers, students, and staff as required, ensuring adherence to professional standards and best practice.Lead and contribute to safeguarding processes, including chairing or supporting case discussions, completing assessments, and liaising with the Designated Officer and statutory bodies.Undertake project work, service development, initiatives, or represent the department at internal and external meetings as delegated by the Head of Social Work.Maintain accurate, up-to- date case records, ensuring timely reports for internal and external stakeholders.Promote and support research, evaluation, and service improvement initiatives that enhance outcomes for service users.Perform such other duties, appropriate to the post as may be assigned from time to time by the Head of Social Work, in line with professional competence and organisational requirements.Essential Criteria:A recognised professional qualification in Social Work and must satisfy Department of Health and Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for appointment by holding a recognised degree or equivalent that is approved by CORU (Social Workers Registration Board).A minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience, ideally with disability, safeguarding, or related social work settings.Demonstrated ability to manage complex casework and make evidence- based professional decisions.Proven experience of supervising, mentoring, or supporting colleagues within a professional setting.Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise competing demands, take initiative, and reliably follow through on delegated tasksFlexibility and resilience to take on additional responsibilities as directed, including deputising for the Head of Social Work when required, in line with professional competence and organisational needsExcellent communication, interpersonal, and report-writing skills, with the ability to represent the Social Work Department at internal and external forums.Full current driving license with access to your own vehicle.What We Are OfferingPermanent ContractsAs part of our staff team you will be supported by regular support and supervision and access to the Employee Assistance Program.A wide variety of on the job training with core training interventions like Studio III.Have an opportunity to work in a person centred organisation and make a positive difference to people's lives and communities.A supportive and inclusive work environment where your ideas and input are valuedThe opportunity to grow and develop professionally in this role through training and experience.27 days annual leave initially plus public holidaysContributory pension scheme of 7%Flexible benefits and above statutory minimumBike to Work SchemeFor informal enquiries please contact Michelle Perrill, Head of Social Work onClosing date is 02nd October ****Interviews will be held on 09th October ****INAW