Exploring Social Care Jobs in Ireland – Why

Are you considering a career as a Social Care Worker in Ireland? Do you want to know more about Social Care jobs and Support Worker jobs in Ireland? Or perhaps you already work in the field and are interested in becoming an agency Social Care worker? Well, there’s never been a better time to join this important and rewarding healthcare sector. Here’s why…

There is a growing demand for Social Care Workers in Ireland

The demand for Social Care Workers and Support Workers in Ireland has never been so high. Like the US and Canada, Ireland and the UK have a shortage of these vital healthcare professionals. Like most countries, we have an aging population which means there are many elderly people who need the support of caregivers. At the same time, Ireland places a strong focus on mental health and well-being and the country needs professionals who can provide social and emotional support. All these reasons mean there are many Social Care jobs and Support Worker jobs in Ireland, and the number of opportunities will keep increasing. In fact, Social Care is one of the fastest growing job categories – making it an ideal career path to consider.

Social Care work offers many different opportunities.

When you choose a career in Social Care, there are so many paths you can pursue. Your role will comprise providing specialised care to people in need – representing and protecting them and helping them achieve their full potential. This means you can care for a wide variety of people in diverse settings. You may choose to care for children and adolescents in residential care or at a day centre - such as those who have experienced childhood trauma or who have intellectual disabilities. Alternatively, you could work with older people – providing essential support – or work with marginalised groups out in the community such as the homeless or people with drug and alcohol addictions. Other opportunities include supporting people in detention centres, community centres, health centres, hospitals and a client’s own home.

There are diverse Social Care roles and qualification pathways.

The main roles in Social Care are Social Care Worker, Social Care Manager or Leader and Support Worker.

To work as a Social Care Worker, you will complete a 3-year Level 7 degree. If you wish to get into a management position you will need a Level 8 degree. Trinity College offers an undergraduate programme and UCD, UCC, Galway, Sligo and Maynooth offer a masters in Social Work.

Alternatively, you can qualify as a Support Worker in Social Care with a full QQI Level 5 in Healthcare OR a childcare-related discipline.

Social Care Workers are registered and recognised.

In a significant development in Ireland, since 2023 all Social Care Workers must be registered or begin the registration process with CORU – Ireland’s multi-profession health regulator. This demonstrates the importance of the profession and endorses Social Care Workers as valued Social Care professionals who work to the highest quality standard.

You can enjoy work flexibility and freedom.

An increasing number of Social Care Workers and Support Workers are discovering the benefits of working on a Temporary basis. This is really attractive as unlike Permanent jobs, you get to decide when, where and how you work – controlling your schedules to achieve a better work/life balance. If you wish you can choose to work in different settings, which makes every day different and helps you build a great CV. You can learn more about Social Care Temporary Work here.

TTM has the Social Care jobs.

If a career in Social Care is for you – TTM is here to help you with your pick of Social Care jobs and Support Worker jobs. We’re proud to be Ireland’s leading healthcare recruitment agency and we have been awarded Tier One status by the HSE and Tusla for the provision of agency Social Care Workers nationwide. We have access to all Agency HSE and Tusla shifts. You can also get first choice of shifts with our private and voluntary healthcare providers. It all means flexible scheduling options and the ability to tailor your career to your specific requirements, lifestyle and professional goals.

We also offer a range of other exclusive benefits. You’ll have your own dedicated consultant to support you at all times, enjoy access to our Perks at Work rewards platform, and be paid weekly rather than monthly.

Exploring Social Care Jobs in Ireland –Why There’s Never Been a Better Time