NOTE: The OSSCork Board of Directors will be the employer of the new Support Worker.

About the OSSCork

The OSSCork is a Domestic Violence Information Support Service that seeks to promote zero tolerance of domestic abuse and coercive control. The OSSCork receives State funding (Cuan, Dept. of Justice) to provide tailored and responsive support services to victims of domestic abuse, of all genders and sexual orientations, aged 18 years and over. The OSSCork achieves its objectives by offering one-to-one support sessions via appointment and walk-in, together with a freephone telephone helpline (9-5pm) as well as providing information, advice, accompaniment and advocacy.

The OSSCork adheres to all statutory obligations and best practice in relation to Child Safeguarding, GDPR and the requirements of the Charities Governance Code. Its operations are overseen by a voluntary Board of Directors who assist a team comprising the Manager and Support Workers.

Job Title Support Worker 

(Fixed Term Specific Purpose Contract 12 Months (Part-Time))

Reporting To OSSCork Manager

Main Purpose

• The position is for a fixed period of twelve months to facilitate the secondment of the current support worker to another project
• The postholder will be required to provide both emotional and practical support to clients of the OSSCork and to advocate on their behalf
• This post will promote zero tolerance of domestic abuse and coercive control

Remuneration & Benefits 

The Salary will be in line with the Social Care Worker Scale Point 1 pro-rata (0.5 WTE)

• The position is based on a 35 hour week (Pro Rata)
• A pension of 7% of basic salary will be paid
• Paid Statutory Sick Leave
• 23 Days annual leave (Pro-Rata)
• Excellent Training and CPD opportunities

Conditions of Work 

The Support Worker will be required to work 19 hours a week

• The position will be funded by Cuan (Dept. of Justice)
• A three month probationary period applies
• Travel and subsistence expenses will be provided in accordance with current Cuan rates
• The successful candidate will need to be Garda Vetted

Main Duties

The Support Worker will :

• Provide a confidential and supportive environment for clients in order to assess risk, explore options, develop care plans and optimise safety
• Engage with clients so they are re-empowered to prepare for a future free from harm
• Facilitate and manage face-to-face appointments in order achieve the above
• Provide support via the OSSCork freephone helpline
• Work in a non-directional, non-directional manner
• Advocate for clients and liaise with relevant stakeholders e.g. Tusla, Housing, Social Protection, Judicial Services
• Build trust with clients via active listening
• Foster a positive professional relationship with all stakeholders including service users and other community services
• Provide referrals to other relevant agencies/organisations for support where necessary and appropriate
• Carry out all reporting requirements, such as record keeping and client notes in accordance with OSSCork’s GDPR Policies and Procedures
• Adhere to the policies of the OSSCork including confidentiality, child protection etc
• Work as part of a team and participate in team and supervision meetings to facilitate a collaborative working environment and an holistic response to client needs.
• Report directly to the Manager and liaise with other staff to implement safety/care plans for the client
• Participate in training and Continuous Professional Development Opportunities

The above list is not exhaustive and may be amended to ensure that the funded programme can be fully delivered with the potential for it to be continued and/or expanded

Core Competencies

• An understanding of Coercive Control – how it manifests and its effects (immediate and long-term)
• Excellent listening, communication (including a high level of spoken and written English) and interpersonal skills including IT skills
• An understanding of the barriers to help seeking behaviours (including effects of cultural and minority group status)
• Excellent Record keeping and Reporting skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Respect of boundaries
• Knowledge of the NGO’s and State bodies with a focus on provision of supports which may be required by a victim of abuse eg, Housing, Health, Justice
• Relevant Third Level Qualifications (QQI – Level 8)

Desirables 

Ability to work on own initiative when necessary

• Experience of working in a DV or Community service
• Flexibility
• Experience of Salesforce or similar database system
• Knowledge and awareness of 2022-2026 national and local policy as it relates to the Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence

Necessary Characteristics 

Model the highest standard of professional practice and carry out all aspects of the role with integrity and respect

Application Process

Application is by C.V. and Cover letter via email only to: angela@osscork.com

Closing date is: Friday 17th May at 5pm

The OSSCork is an Equal Opportunities Employer