Disability Support Worker – Cork
Job Title: Disability Support Worker
Reporting To: Operations Manager / Clinical Nurse Manager / Service Manager
Location: Community Based
Role Purpose
The Disability Support Worker provides person‑centred support to individuals with physical, intellectual, or sensory disabilities, promoting independence, dignity, and inclusion in line with HSE policies and HIQA standards.
The role focuses on enhancing quality of life through daily living support, community participation, and social inclusion.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide supports in accordance with each individual’s personal plan.
- Promote independence, autonomy, and choice at all times.
- Respect dignity, privacy, and rights in line with HSE safeguarding policies.
- Support individuals to achieve personal goals and outcomes.
- Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) including:
- Personal care (e.g. hygiene, dressing)
- Meal preparation and nutrition support
- Household tasks (cleaning, laundry)
- Support mobility and safe use of assistive equipment.
- Support individuals in maintaining physical and mental health.
- Assist with medication prompting in line with HSE guidelines (where trained).
- Observe, record, and report any changes in health or wellbeing.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams (e.g. nurses, social workers, therapists).
- Support service users to:
- Access education, employment, or training opportunities
- Engage in social, recreational, and cultural activities
- Build and maintain relationships
- Promote active participation in the community.
- Safeguard individuals from abuse, neglect, or harm in accordance with HSE Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons Policy.
- Report any concerns promptly through appropriate channels.
- Act as an advocate to ensure the rights of service users are upheld.
- Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records:
- Daily notes
- Incident reports
- Care plans
- Comply with HIQA regulations, HSE policies, and organisational procedures.
- Participate in audits and inspections where required.
- Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Attend team meetings, supervision, and training sessions.
- Engage in continuous professional development (CPD).
- Adhere to professional boundaries and codes of conduct.
Qualifications & Experience – Essential
- Minimum QQI Level 5 qualification in Healthcare Support / Social Care / Community Care / Applied Social Studies
- Experience working with individuals with disabilities (desirable but not always essential)
- Knowledge of person‑centred planning and safeguarding practices
Qualifications & Experience – Desirable
- Experience community disability services
- Manual handling training
- Medication management training
- Understanding of HIQA standards and New Directions framework
Skills & Competencies
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Empathy, patience, and a respectful approach
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good organisational and record‑keeping skills
- Flexibility and adaptability
Other Requirements
- Garda Vetting clearance (mandatory)
- Eligibility to work in Ireland