Fostering First Ireland (FFI) is seeking a compassionate and committed Link Social Worker to join our team in the Mid-West to cover maternity leave for 1 year minimum. This is a home-based role with flexibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and foster carers. There will be travel predominantly across Limerick, Clare and surrounds.

We welcome applications from candidates who are committed to trauma-informed practice and who value connection, empowerment, and inclusivity in their work.

Why Join Us?

At FFI, we believe in creating safe, empowering environments for children, carers, and staff. As part of the international Key Assets Group, we offer a supportive, trauma-informed, values-led approach rooted in Safety, Trust, Empathy, Connection, Empowerment, Participation, and Inclusivity.

What You’ll Do

You’ll support foster carers through regular supervision, training, and guidance, helping them provide safe, nurturing homes for children and young people. You’ll also:

• Monitor and review carer practice to ensure high-quality placements for children and young people.

• Collaborate with the placements team to identify and match suitable foster placements.

• Facilitate monthly carer support groups and deliver core training modules.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards through accurate documentation and participation in regular internal audits, contributing to a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

• Take part in the company out of hours system on a rota basis

• There will be significant travel in this role

What We’re Looking For

• A qualified Social Worker (CORU registered) with 2+ years’ post-qualification experience.

• Experience in fostering is welcome but not essential.

• A self-starter who is flexible, empathetic, and collaborative.

• Strong organisational and IT skills.

• Full, clean driving licence and willingness to travel.

• A trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to practice

• Must reside in the identified area to support foster carers effectively.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (aligned with public sector pay scales)

• Generous annual leave (25 days, rising to 30 days)

• Sick pay scheme & paid family leave

• Private Pension Scheme

• Group health insurance (after 1 year)

• Death in service cover

• Ongoing supervision, learning & development

Interested?

Visit www.fosteringfirstireland.ie to learn more about our work.

For an informal chat, contact:

Claire Lohan, Team Manager – 087 4584095 | Claire.lohan@ffi.ie

Elaine O’Byrne, Principal Social Worker – 087 3963389 | elaine.obyrne@ffi.ie

To apply, please complete our application form (below) and send it with your CV to jobs@ffi.ie.

Closing date: Tuesday 27th January at close of business 5pm

Interviews: Thursday 5th February

Shortlisting will apply.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, we warmly invite you to let us know. We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive experience for all applicants.