Project Worker, Advice and Information Service, Carlow

Project Worker, Advice and Information Service, CarlowLocation: CarlowContract: Full-time, Permanent(Starting Salary €36,687 - €39,856.49)The purpose of this role is to work as part of Focus Ireland’s Advice and Information Service, to deliver a dedicated, advice, advocacy and support service to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.What you will do:Provide information, advice and advocacy on housing, legal rights, and social welfare entitlements to persons who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.Undertake assessments and develop/implement support plans of people’s personal and accommodation situation needs.Liaise and advocate with relevant statutory authorities to support persons accessing the service.Manage a caseload and operate an open access drop in/phone/email service.Make contact with and establish links as appropriate with local services and relevant community groups.To refer people to external agencies which can more appropriately assist people with their personal, social, legal and accommodation needs.Work with and under the supervision and direction of the line management within the project.Work individually and as part of a team, and provide team support on daily basisWork within a client-centred approach, encouraging autonomy and independence.Be familiar with and comply with all relevant Focus Ireland policy e.g. Child Protection Policy, Confidentiality Policy, Customer Complaints Policy, Health and Safety Policy, Personnel Policy.Maintain accurate records and statistics in accordance with Focus Ireland policy.Participate in the evaluation and development of the service.Liaise with and work co-operatively and effectively with the employees in Focus Ireland in relation to organisational procedures and policies in areas of personnel, finance, administration, research, development, education, public awareness and services.Be vigilant to any Health, Safety and Welfare risks in the workplace and bring any concerns to the attention of your Line Manager or Health & Safety representative. Attend and contribute to Team, Section and Agency meetings as required.Engage in supervision sessions on a regular basis with the Project Leader or Team Leader.Engage in Reflective Practice to support professional development.Participate in relevant training and development courses as agreed with your Project Leader/Team Leader.Undertake such other duties as might be reasonably assigned from time to time in consultation with the Project Leader.Work within the framework of the overall objectives of Focus Ireland.What you will need:Relevant third level degree in the area of social care i.e. youth work, social studies, addiction, psychology, law.At least 2 years’ experience in the social care field working with disadvantaged single people and familiesExperience of supporting marginalised households with high risk and challenging behaviourA working knowledge of issues affecting people out-of-home and their impact on people and their physical, emotional and psychological development/status.Proven advocacy skills.Experience of dealing with child protection and welfare responsibilities and responding appropriately to any concerns.Experience in carrying out assessments, including risk assessments.Experience in developing support plans and carrying out reviews.Ability to work on own initiative, working alone and in a team setting.Ability to display flexibility in the role.Full clean driver’s licence.A working knowledge of services in the homeless sector.Focus Ireland is an equal opportunities employer