NUVO are seeking a Deputy Person in Charge for our client in Co. Laois. The Deputy PIC supports the delivery of high-quality, safe, and person-centered care for children, reporting to the Person in Charge. As a team leader, they guide Social Care and Assistant Support Workers, champion young people's autonomy, and communicate with key stakeholders. They manage day-to-day operations, make decisions in consultation with their manager and meeting the needs of service users through professional practice.

Under the direction of the Person in Charge (PIC), the Deputy PIC will provide care in line with:

• Professional Clinical Guidelines

• National and regional Tusla guidelines

• Local policies and protocols

• Current legislation relevant to the role

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as Deputy Person in Charge and lead the staff team through effective line management.

• Manage staff rotas and attendance systems to support high-quality care and smooth service operation.

• Ensure team alignment with the organisation’s values and goals through clear communication, regular meetings, an effective keyworker system, and daily supervision.

• Oversee staff training, including induction, and conduct formal supervisions.

• Address performance issues with support from senior management and HR as needed.

• Implement behavioural support strategies with a clinically informed, low-arousal approach.

• Lead and support staff in delivering person-centred services, promoting problem-solving and continuous improvement.

• Promote privacy, dignity, independence, rights, and community inclusion for children.

• Foster respectful interpersonal relationships and support each child’s personal development and self-care.

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and presentation in the home and encourage community engagement.

• Manage documentation, including reports, records, and notifications.

• Participate in service planning and attend all relevant meetings.

• Engage with the Management Team to deliver optimal services.

• Stay informed on developments in the social care field.

• Support family engagement and accompany children to medical appointments as required.

• Work a flexible, person-driven roster.

• Oversee household purchasing with attention to cost-effectiveness.

This list is not exhaustive; the post holder may be assigned additional duties relevant to the role and contribute to its ongoing development.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• Third-level qualification in Applied Social Studies in Social Care (or equivalent)

• Minimum 1 year of demonstrable management experience in a similar setting

Desirable:

• Experience managing and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders

• Proven ability to supervise and lead teams

• Experience working with young people

• Background in community-based care

• Strong report writing skills

Professional Knowledge

Essential:

• Strong understanding of the National Standards for Children’s Residential Centres

• Knowledge of related legislation, including:

  • Disability Acts 1998 & 2005

  • Data Protection Act 2003

  • Children First National Guidance 2011 (where relevant)

  • Child Care Act

Training & Development

All employees will have access to career development opportunities, with ongoing training in legislation, Health & Safety, and job-specific areas. The HR department ensures training is fair, transparent, and accessible to all staff.