Social Care Leader

Social Care Leader Children's Residential Services (Disability & Mainstream)

Location: Westmeath

Employment Type: Full-time / Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Team Lead to support the delivery of high-quality, child-centred residential care across both children's disability and mainstream services.
The successful candidate will play a key leadership role in ensuring safe, supportive and empowering environments that promote each young person's wellbeing, independence and positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise, mentor, and support the social care team in delivering high-quality, person-centred care.
• Lead by example, modelling best practice in trauma-informed and child-focused care.
• Support the Deputy Manager and Manager in the day-to-day running of the residential service.
• Co-chair staff meetings, oversee daily handovers, and ensure effective team communication.
• Monitor rosters and ensure the right balance of experience and qualification across shifts.
• Promote safeguarding, quality, and compliance with HIQA/Tusla standards and company policies.
• Participate in staff supervision, training, audits, and on-call duties as required.
• Ensure all documentation, reports, and records are maintained to a high standard and in line with GDPR.

• Complete audits, reports, incident reviews and risk assessments.
• Ensure high standards of record-keeping and documentation at all times.
• Support preparation for HIQA or internal inspections.

Qualifications

• Level 7 or higher qualification in Applied Social Care (CORU-approved), or equivalent (e.g. Nursing, Teaching, Social Work, Social Science, Psychology
• Minimum two years' experience working at Social Care grade with children or young people.
• Full, clean driving licence (manual).
• Strong knowledge of social care principles, practice, and basic management or supervision skills.

Desirable

• Training in Supervision, TCI/PMAV/CPI, Addiction Awareness, First Aid, or Health & Safety.
• Experience mentoring or supporting care staff in a residential environment.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed and positive behaviour support approaches.
• Knowledge of HIQA/Tusla inspection standards and reporting requirements.

Benefits & Salary

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Full Induction and Continuous Professional Development
• Career Progression Opportunities
• Regular Team Building and Seasonal Events
• Maternity Contribution (for long-serving team members, 5+ years)
• Supportive, inclusive workplace where your wellbeing matters

Why work with Orange Recruitment?

• Career advice and support from experienced social care professionals
• 24 hour response time
• Constant communication
• Full onboarding assistance from start to finish
• Access to additional training
• Interview advice and preparation