Health Care Assistant

Role Overview

The Health Care Assistant plays a pivotal role within Orchard Care Group's dedicated teams, contributing significantly to our mission of 'Building Brighter Futures' for those we support. This role involves active participation in the daily routines and activities within the service, offering direct support to individuals as well as handling administrative and household tasks. Working seamlessly within an innovative team in residential services, the assistant ensures all care aligns with HIQA regulations and standards.

Work Schedule

Due to the nature of our specialist services that operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year, the position requires working on a rolling shift roster, which includes sleep-in and waking night shifts as needed. Flexibility in working hours is occasionally necessary.

Essential Criteria

• Possession of relevant QQI Level 5 Healthcare qualifications or an equivalent credential.
• At least one year of experience supporting adults or children with intellectual and physical disabilities in a similar setting.
• Understanding of complex needs related to both adults and children.
• Valid full manual driving license with eligibility to drive in Ireland.
• Legal eligibility to live and work in Ireland without restrictions.

Key Responsibilities

• Support assigned care activities for children and adults as outlined by management and individual integrated Care Plans, ensuring high-quality care delivery.
• Promote individual recognition of service users, prioritizing their and their families’ needs and comforts.
• Advocate on behalf of the children/adults and their families, facilitating access to appropriate information and support.
• Foster social interaction opportunities for the people we support, both individually and in groups.
• Handle equipment safely, being fully aware of safety procedures and proper usage.
• Engage actively in all communication channels such as team meetings, staff forums, and email correspondence.
• Deliver personal care as necessary to support individuals.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding the organization and those we support at all times.
• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to work various shifts to accommodate service needs.

Employee Benefits

• Enhanced premium rates on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
• Exceptional staffing ratios to ensure quality care.
• Flexible arrangements for work scheduling.
• Comprehensive training programs, including paid training at commencement and support for further and higher education.
• Strong commitment to ongoing professional development and career progression within the expanding organization.
• Income Protection coverage.
• Recognition through the Orchard Values Award.
• Participation in the Bike to Work scheme.
• Referral incentive through the Refer a Friend scheme.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.

About Orchard Care Group

Orchard Care Group is committed to delivering outstanding care and support for children, young people, and adults across Ireland, including services in fostering, disability, and mainstream residential care. It combines three leading Irish social care brands: Orchard Residential, Orchard Community Care, and Orchard Fostering. Our vision is to enable those we support to live meaningful lives through quality care, nurtured by a positive, collaborative, and values-driven culture centered on Advocacy, Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration, and Human Rights.