Team Leader

Spring Life provides residential care for children and young people, alongside services for adults with disabilities. We place individual needs, dignity and choice at the centre of our work, creating supportive environments that promote wellbeing, independence and belonging.

The opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Team Leader to provide practical leadership and support consistent standards of care. Working closely with service management, you will coordinate allocated shifts, guide colleagues and ensure that residents’ needs, rights and safety inform day-to-day decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead allocated shifts and coordinate staff duties in accordance with residents’ assessed needs, care plans and agreed staffing arrangements.

• Provide direct care while modelling professional, respectful and person-centred practice.

• Guide colleagues in implementing care plans, risk assessments and agreed behaviour support strategies.

• Ensure effective handovers, clear communication and continuity of care.

• Respond to incidents and safeguarding concerns, taking appropriate immediate action and escalating matters to management.

• Monitor the quality and completeness of care records, reports and other documentation.

• Support staff induction, mentoring and supervision within delegated responsibilities.

• Assist management with service reviews, audits and the implementation of agreed improvements.

• Work collaboratively with families, representatives and relevant professionals.

• Promote accountability, reflective practice and constructive working relationships.

Essential requirements

• A recognised Social Care qualification at NFQ Level 7 or above, or another qualification or professional registration route assessed as suitable for the post.

• Current CORU registration as a Social Care Worker. Existing practitioners with a pending Section 91 application may be considered where documentary evidence confirms their continuing entitlement to use the title.

• At least three years of relevant social care experience.

• Demonstrated experience of leading shifts, supervising colleagues or coordinating a care team.

• Strong knowledge of safeguarding, risk management, care planning and professional boundaries.

• Understanding of the regulatory standards applicable to the service.

• Strong organisational, communication and decision-making skills.

• Eligibility to work in Ireland and availability to fulfil the agreed roster.

A relevant leadership or management qualification is desirable. Required shifts may include evenings, weekends, waking nights or sleepovers, depending on the post.

Recruitment and screening

Our recruitment process comprises CV review and shortlisting, an initial interview, compliance screening, a final interview following satisfactory compliance clearance, and an employment offer for successful candidates.

Screening includes identity and permission-to-work checks, qualification verification, professional registration, references, Garda vetting, overseas police clearances where required, employment history and training records.