Family Support Worker – Maternity cover

Start Monday 10th March to 12th December 2014

DEBRA Ireland is the national charity established in 1988 to provide patient support services and to drive research into treatments and cures for those living with the genetic skin condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). Patients who have EB, have skin that is as delicate and fragile as the wings of a butterfly, and just as easily damaged. The condition is extremely painful and leads to disability and deformity. Many of our patients who survive childhood face the frightening reality that they could develop a very aggressive form of skin cancer, due to the constant breakdown of their skin.

DEBRA Ireland is an ambitious patient led charity with a powerful case for support. We are very clear about where we need to be within the next five years and are passionate about achievement and excellence.

We are currently looking for a Family Support Worker to fill a maternity contract. This role is central to supporting those affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa and their families. Candidates who have previous experience in a similar role and knowledge of the charitable sector are an advantage.

Period of maternity leave is for 9 month period on a part time basis commencing March 2014- December 2014.

Applicant will need to be a team player, a self starter, have strong communications skills (verbal & written) and relevant experience in Social Care/Health/Education.

Suitable candidate should have Garda vetting to work with children within the last two years.

Salary: DOE

Hours of Work: The post is for 21 hours per week.There will be a requirement for occasional “out of hours” work.

To Apply: Please email your CV and cover letter and

For more information about DEBRA Ireland visit

Closing date:7th February 2014

Location: The post is based in the DEBRA Ireland office at Butterfly Cottage, 8 Clanwilliam Terrace, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 2.

Travel: There will be a requirement to undertake home visits north and south of the country.

Family Support Worker

The post of EB Family Support Worker will provide patient centred support.

Role & Duties

  • To be a voice for and a support person to those affected by EB
  • Practical and emotional support, shaped by the needs of the family
  • Provision of information relating to EB
  • Visits to members in hospital
  • Visit members in their home
  • Manage and process respite grants
  • Manage and process special circumstances grant
  • To work with other staff in applying for grants
  • Counselling referrals where appropriate
  • Provision of channels for peer support, 3 annual support groups
  • Attend family day in Barrettstown
  • Bereavement support
  • Liaise with other medical professionals in the community to enhance support locally.
  • Information on entitlements
  • Organise Memorial Service

All our staff will always act in accordance with the DEBRA Ireland code of professional conductand within the Children’s first Guidelines

Person Specification

Essential skills and experience:

Experience of working in a Social Care/Community/Health/Education environment

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage users and carers and staff in other agencies.

A self-starter who can embrace both working on own initiative and be a team player.

Administrative skills with strong computer skill including database experience.

An awareness of Equal Opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.

Must have a clean full driving licence. DEBRA company car will be provided.

Have Garda clearance to work with children within the last 2 years.

Desirable skills and experience:

Third level education

Experience or knowledge of working with people with a physical disability

Experience of working in the charity sector

Most of all, passionate about fighting EB!