FME (Forensic Medical Exam) Midwest Service Coordinator

About Rape Crisis Midwest

Rape Crisis Midwest (RCM) works for the protection of all people from all forms of sexual violence and abuse. It primarily supports survivors of sexual abuse and violence through free, confidential support and counselling, working from an intersectional feminist framework. RCM deliver services utilising a survivor-centred and trauma-informed model. RCM operates from the knowledge that survivors have the capacity to grow and heal and that they are the experts in what they need. Survivor identified indicators of recovery and healing inform the way in which services are delivered and developed. A trauma-informed model means services are offered with the understanding that a survivor’s reactions are a normal response to trauma. RCM believes that responding to sexual violence in our society and holding perpetrators to account starts with supporting survivors in ways that are respectful of their dignity, healing and choices. RCM works to hold perpetrators accountable for their behaviour and counteract rape culture and victim blaming. The headquarters for Rape Crisis Midwest services is in Limerick with satellite services in both Ennis and Nenagh. Our service delivery includes counselling; Garda and court accompaniment; advice, to both survivors, and their supporters; and sexual violence training to individuals and organisations. We work nationally in partnership with Cuan – the Domestic, Sexual & Gender Based Violence Agency and Rape Crisis Ireland.

About the Role

We are seeking a compassionate and highly organized Forensic Medical Exam (FME) Midwest Service Coordinator for a fixed-term period of 6 months. The Midwest FME service is provided to persons reporting a rape or sexual assault to the Gardaí. The service is delivered in partnership with ShannonDoc, An Garda Síochana, University Hospital Limerick and HSE Primary Care. This role is responsible for overseeing the psychological support services provided within the FME service, coordinating and supporting volunteers, developing and delivering training programs, and ensuring a trauma-informed model is at the core of the FME operations. The Coordinator will also be responsible for developing volunteer rotas and providing monthly debriefing and support sessions for volunteers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver training programs on psychological support, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care for FME volunteers.
• Coordinate and oversee the FME volunteer team, ensuring adequate coverage and response capacity by developing and managing volunteer rotas.
• Provide monthly support and debriefing sessions for FME volunteers, offering guidance on managing trauma exposure and maintaining well-being.
• Ensure that all FME services remain survivor-centred, working closely with medical professionals, forensic teams, and crisis advocates to maintain best practices.
• Monitor and evaluate psychological support programs, identifying areas for improvement and implementing evidence-based practices.
• Collaborate with Rape Crisis Midwest’s counselling and advocacy services, ensuring a seamless referral process for survivors seeking ongoing psychological support.
• Liaise with key stakeholders, including hospital administrators, An Garda Síochána, and advocacy groups, to strengthen FME operations and ensure compliance with national guidelines.
• Participate in an on-call rota, ensuring psychological support is available when needed 
• Contribute to policy development and advocate for improved psychological support services within RCM

Essential Requirements

• A degree in Psychology, Counselling, Social Care, Social Work, Mental Health, or a related field (BA or MA).
• Experience in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, or psychological support within sexual violence or gender-based violence services.
• Strong coordination and organizational skills, with experience managing volunteers, scheduling rotas, and overseeing service delivery.
• Proven ability to deliver training and workshops for volunteers, healthcare professionals and crisis support workers.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills to engage with survivors, volunteers, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of Irish sexual violence support services, legal frameworks, and national SATU operations (preferred).

Desirable Skills

• Previous experience working in or coordinating a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) or similar crisis response service.
• Certification in trauma-informed care, crisis response, or psychological first aid.
• Experience in research, policy development, or advocacy in the field of sexual violence support.

Why Join Rape Crisis Midwest?

• Be part of a leading advocacy organization making a real difference in the lives of survivors.
• Work in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment dedicated to trauma-informed service delivery.
• Gain valuable experience in coordinating psychological support services within the FME service.
• Competitive salary and on-call allowance for participation in the on-call rota.
• Opportunity for future roles within the organization.

Terms & Conditions

• This is a 17.5 hours per week role on a fixed term 6 month contract 
• Annual leave is 29 days pro rata
• Gross salary for this post is €47500 pro rata 
• Additional on-call allowance 
• Application Process 

To apply

Please complete the application form with a supporting cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role to recruitment@rapecrisis.ie – closing date – close of business on the 12th March 2025. 

Note for Applicants

Garda Vetting is a requirement. All prospective employees are required to declare prior convictions 

Rape Crisis Midwest is an Equal Opportunities Employer