Principal Social Worker - Galway

Principal Social Worker

Galway, Ireland

Permanent, Full-Time

35 hours per week

79,359 - 97,597 per annum (dependent on experience)

We are delighted to recruit on behalf of our client, a highly regarded and long-established organisation providing person-centred disability services to over 600 children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities across Galway City and County. Founded over 60 years ago, they operate across more than 70 centres delivering day services, residential and respite support, community programmes, therapeutic interventions, and specialist education. Their mission is to empower every person they support to live a meaningful and self-directed life in an equal and inclusive society.

As the organisation embarks on an exciting period of transformational growth, an exceptional opportunity has arisen for a dynamic and experienced Principal Social Worker to join the senior leadership team. This is a pivotal role for a values-driven professional who wants to make a lasting and meaningful impact for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Role Overview

The Principal Social Worker will provide strategic leadership, professional guidance, and oversight to the Social Work Team, acting as the organisational lead on all social work and safeguarding matters. The role holds responsibility for the Designated Officer function, the management of a busy Duty Social Work system, and the oversight of the Home Sharing service. As a key contributor to the Management Team, the Principal Social Worker will shape policy, drive quality improvement, and champion the rights, safety, and wellbeing of the people supported by the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Management

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the Social Work Team.
• Develop and implement social work and safeguarding strategies aligned with organisational objectives.
• Promote a culture of person-centred, rights-based practice and continuous improvement.
• Advise the senior leadership team on social work, safeguarding, and regulatory matters.

Safeguarding and Protection

• Lead on all safeguarding matters across the organisation, acting as the expert on policy, legislation, and best practice.
• Oversee the management of safeguarding concerns, investigations, and protection plans.
• Ensure appropriate reporting and liaison with statutory agencies including Tusla, the HSE, An Garda Si ochana, and HIQA.
• Monitor safeguarding trends and implement measures to reduce risk and improve outcomes.

Professional Oversight of Social Work Services

• Provide professional supervision, support, and guidance to social workers.
• Ensure social work interventions are evidence-based, effective, and compliant with professional standards.
• Support staff in managing complex cases and high-risk situations.
• Lead service development initiatives to enhance social work practice across the organisation.

Quality, Compliance and Governance

• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, HIQA standards, CORU requirements, and national safeguarding policies.
• Lead audits, reviews, and quality improvement initiatives relating to social work and safeguarding.
• Prepare reports and presentations for senior management, committees, and external stakeholders.
• Maintain oversight of risk management processes relating to safeguarding and social work services.

Training, Development and Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and deliver safeguarding and social work training programmes across the organisation.
• Support workforce planning, recruitment, induction, and performance management.
• Build strong relationships with people supported, families, advocacy groups, and statutory agencies.
• Represent the organisation at external forums, working groups, and professional networks.

Essential Requirements

• A recognised professional qualification in Social Work prescribed under the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005, or a Letter of Validation issued by CORU/National Social Work Qualifications Board.
• Eligibility for CORU registration.
• A minimum of five years' post-qualification experience as a Social Worker.
• Significant experience working with children and/or adults with intellectual disabilities, autism, or complex support needs.
• A postgraduate qualification in Leadership or Management.
• A high standard of administrative and management experience.
• Experience of complex assessment, case management, and multidisciplinary working.
• Experience supporting individuals and families through significant life transitions.
• Full, current driving licence with access to your own vehicle.
• Eligibility to work in Ireland.

Desirable

• Budget management experience, particularly relevant to Home Sharing service delivery.
• Effective supervision and leadership skills within a social work or disability setting.

What's on Offer

• Salary of 79,359 - 97,597 per annum, dependent on experience.
• 35 hours per week, permanent full-time contract.
• Automatic enrolment in the pension scheme.
• 10% corporate discount on LAYA Healthcare plans.
• Generous annual leave, maternity, and paternity benefits.
• A supportive and inclusive workplace with full training and development opportunities.
• Excellent opportunities for career progression within a growing, values-driven organisation.