Refuge Workers: Relief Panel

The role of the refuge team is to provide 24 hour refuge support to women and children who are subjected to domestic abuse. This is a varied post which involves diverse tasks ranging from housekeeping to health and safety checks & enforcement to emotional & physical support to woman & children subjected to abuse in their home from someone they live with. You will work as part of a team, providing a welcoming safe environment for women and their children who are using the service.

The refuge operates a 24/7/365(6) service and is staffed at all times. Relief staff will be required to cover any shifts during this time. The hours of work will vary from shift to shift depending on the cover needed, and will include, evenings/overnights during the week and evenings/overnights and days over the weekend. Sometimes it is at short notice and it is on an “as & when” basis. Shifts are between 3 and 15 hours and are overnight as well as weekend and public holiday, day shifts.

Requirements of the Post

The successful candidate will a hard worker, will be adaptable and flexible and will be willing to learn new skills. They will be empathetic and compassionate yet practical and pragmatic. They will be working alongside a dedicated team providing services both in-person and via the phone, for women and children who are being subjected to domestic abuse by someone they live with in their home. The successful candidates will have:

Essential Requirements:

• Minimum QQI Level 5 qualification in Social Care or equivalent

OR

A minimum of 5 years working in a domestic abuse service that incorporates at least 2 of the following, a help/ information line, a refuge, an outreach service and will have evidence of relevant CPD training.

And

• Knowledge of Domestic Abuse and its impact on women and children.

And

• Understanding/working knowledge of children’s First Legislation/Child Care Act & Domestic Violence Act 2018,

And

A commitment to the protection from harm for women and children

Desirable Requirements:

• Previous experience of working in a domestic abuse service or other similar setting
• An interest in the area of violence against women and related gender equality issues

Rate of Pay

The salary is aligned with Tusla Trainee Social Care Worker Grade Scale commencing at point 4 i.e. between circa €16 & €18 p/h depending on the type of shift i.e. weekday, public holiday etc

Skills and Abilities Required

– An ability to maintain positive relations with clients, colleagues, and other professional agencies.

– An ability to be organised in one’s approach to work, to follow through with tasks and to maintain records

– An ability to work pro-actively and reflectively to ensure best practice in all areas of service delivery.

– Strong I.T skills

– A commitment to providing the highest level of quality service.

– Empathy and a trauma aware approach to all interactions.

Application Process

Apply by submitting a letter identifying how you would be a suitable candidate with a copy of your C.V. to: recruitment@clarehaven.ie with “Refuge Worker: Relief Panel” in the subject line.

Shortlisting will apply

For those who progress to the interview stage, these will take place within two weeks of application

Interviews can be conducted in person or via remote interview depending on your preference.

This is a rolling recruitment.

Clare Haven Services is an Equal Opportunities Employer

We are currently recruiting volunteers to work in our Court Accompaniment Service, our Children and Young People’s Service, our Outreach Service, our Community Education and Awareness Service, Fundraising, and in Maintenance/Housekeeping, particularly in relation to gardening.

We are also looking for suitably skilled individuals to sit on our Board of Management.

If you are interested in becoming involved please complete the Volunteer Application Form and return it by email to hr@clarehaven,ie or by post to Human Resources, Clare Haven Services, Abbey Lodge, Limerick Road, Ennis. Co Clare, V95 KR72