Community Development Worker

Particulars of the Post:

The contract of employment is subject to a satisfactory 4 month probationary period, positive annual performance appraisal and availability of funding.

It is a part time (21 hour week) post which can include occasional evening work. The post will be based at Cumann Na Daoine Catherine Street, Youghal, Co. Cork. This post is offered on a 1 year fixed term contract.

Terms and Conditions of Post:

The Community Development Worker is bound by the terms and conditions of Cumann Na Daoine staff handbook.

Salary; The salary for this position is €25,288 per annum

Reporting relationships: The post holder will report to the ECT Project Coordinator.

Objective:

The primary objective of this post is to lead in the formation and development of local Traveller led groups in the four hubs in East Cork (Midleton, Cobh, Youghal and Carrigtwohill) to build their capacity to participate in the decision-making, planning, provision and delivery of appropriate services for their community. Supporting the community to reflect on the social determinants of health and identify appropriate actions that can be taken to improve health outcomes for the community. This will lead to positive outcomes for the Traveller Community and positively influence and enhance their health and social gain (as identified in the priorities outlined in the All Ireland Traveller Health Study and Cork Kerry Traveller Health Implementation Plan 2023-2028).

Traveller accommodation has been identified as a key factor in the health and well being of the Traveller community and a key objective of this post is to work as a key member of our Health and Development team in developing appropriate advocacy and support structures and to network with accommodation providers, agencies and legal supports to increase access to good quality, culturally appropriate accommodation.

To work in conjunction with the ECT team and Steering Group, Board of Management Cumann Na Daoine, HSE Primary Care Team, Community Works Department, Traveller Health Unit and other relevant stakeholders and agencies to enable Local Groups to access information and opportunities that will enable them to grow and develop.

The Core functions of the post holder will be;

To directly engage with East Cork’s Traveller community, building positive relationship which will lead to empowerment and affect real social change.

To support Traveller participation with relevant statutory and non-statutory organisations and agencies in East Cork, across Cork County and Nationally.

Principal Role and Duties;

1. The Post holder will work as a part of our Health and Development team and work to improve the living conditions of Travellers in East Cork, through joint initiatives with RTAWG (Regional Traveller Accommodation Working Group) and ITM (Irish Traveller Movement) Accommodation Working Group and by developing appropriate advocacy and support structures in our project to support families in accessing decent, culturally appropriate accommodation.
2. To develop and deliver an outreach programme in the four hubs (Cobh, Midleton, Youghal and Carrigtwohill) in East Cork targeting all members of the Traveller community in East Cork including women, men and young people.
3. To identify key baseline data in relation to the needs of Travellers in East Cork and co lead in the formation and development of Local Groups for Travellers to meet those needs.
4. To support groups to identify and articulate existing and emerging development needs of the Traveller community.
5. To promote multi agency consultation and co-operation with Traveller families living or residing in the East Cork County.
6. To work with service providers to support the development of culturally appropriate services for Travellers.
7. To facilitate information sessions and community workshops working in partnership with the relevant agencies and organisations.
8. To support Traveller participation on relevant local, regional and national forums.
9. To mentor volunteers which includes identifying training opportunities, enabling them to develop skills and experiences to actively take part in Local Groups, relevant strategic meetings and employment and training opportunities.
10. Document progress and adhere to reporting requirements of the post as directed by the line Coordinator.

This Job Description is not exhaustive and the post holder will be required to undertake any other duties, which may be assigned to them by ECT Project Coordinator. This Job Description may be revised to take account of changing circumstances or requirements.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential

1. Knowledge and understanding of Traveller issues and human rights.
2. At least 2 years experience of working in a community development context (paid or voluntary) or related area and a recognised 3rd level qualification to degree level in community development, health, social care or a related field.
3. Experience of work in area of Health and Community Development.
4. Proven facilitation and group work skills.
5. Knowledge and understanding of community development principles and the proven ability to work from these principles.
6. Strong communication skills.
7. Ability to network with a range of stakeholders.
8. Negotiating skills.
9. Commitment to equality and social justice.
10. Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.

Desirable

1. Ability to plan long term as per the priorities of an organisation’s work plan.
2. Experience of mentoring volunteers.
3. Ability to identify appropriate funding sources.
4. Competency in report writing and administrative and computer skills.
5. Experience in working in the area of accommodation/homelessness.

Cumann na Daoine will also consider applications from suitable recent graduates with a view to offering this post as an internship.

The post is funded and supported by the HSE Traveller Health Unit HSE South West.

We are an equal opportunity employer and applications from members of the Traveller Community are particularly welcome. Short-listing will apply.

Applications

To apply for the position, please forward a C.V. and cover letter to jsheehancumannnadaoine@gmail.com

To reach us no later than 5pm on Thursday 15th May.

Please write ‘ECT Position’ in the subject bar of the email.

Alternatively, send your CV and cover letter to:
Jason Sheehan, 
East Cork Traveller Project Co-ordinator, 
Cumann na Daoine, 
Catherine Street, 
Youghal 
Co. Cork.