We would like to invite applications for the following 20.5-hour, Specified Purpose Contract role.
Programme Assistant – Driver
Castlebar, Co. Mayo
IWA is committed to promoting, maintaining and adding to our diverse and inclusive work environment.
As a Programme Assistant/ Driver you will be responsible for the safe transportation of the members to and from the Community Centre. As a Programme Assistant/Driver you will also be expected to lead with the delivery of services to members engaging in personal and activation programmes in the Centre. The essential nature of the Centre is to provide a pathway for people with physical disabilities to full participation with the community. Close liaison is required with Community Centre staff and members for the successful implementation of this position. Links will also be made with relevant voluntary and statutory agencies, families and friends of members.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Lead on the implementation of programme activities within the Community Centre, which will involve the following: implementing programmes daily from the participants’ choice, Complete all report writing on programme designs. Liaise and network with local resources i.e. colleges for implementing creative new programmes
Support Coordinator and Service Support Officer in creating and implementing fundraising initiatives
Administrative duties
Encourage members to be actively involved in developmental, personal and activation programmes, that operate from the Centre, and to be actively involved in implementation of same
Accompany and support participants on annual holidays, outings, socials and day trips as required by Service Coordinator/Service Support Officer
Patient moving and handling; assist with personal care of participants where required
Actively ensure that standards and practices regarding health and safety are fully adhered to in all areas of activities
To comply with IWA's Parent and Ancillary Safety Statements and any legislative duties set out in current Health and Safety and Fire Safety Legislation
Ensure that your responsibilities to safeguard children and adults from abuse or harm is a core aspect of your role and that IWA’s Safeguarding Policies and Procedures are adhered to.
The use of clamping, hoisting and lifting equipment are an essential part of this role
Record and report any hazards, accidents or potential incidents to the Service Coordinator/Service Support Officer
Transport participants to and from the Centre daily, and also to and from other related community activities as required by the Service Coordinator/Service Support Officer
Ensure that vehicles for which you are responsible are always in a roadworthy condition and make such arrangements as are necessary for the maintenance, cleanliness and repairs of such vehicles in consultation with Service Coordinator/Service Support Officer
Mentor staff and volunteers in all aspects relating to programme activities and transport safety
Maintenance of the busses
Flexibility and availability for out of hours service activities i.e. evenings and weekends
Carry out any other duties and / or responsibilities which may be assigned to you from time to time
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Training, Experience and Qualifications
A minimum of 5 completed modules of QQI level 5 in HealthCare Support or similar qualification is essential. QQI Major Awards that are deemed relevant to IWA are:
Community & Health Services (to include minor components Safety & Health at Work and Care Provision & Practice)
Health Service Skills (to include minor components in Workplace Statutory Policies & Procedures and Care Skills and Care Support)
Health Care Support (to include minor components Safety & Health at Work and Care Skills and Care Support)
A Full category B driving licence is a must and a D licence would be a distinct advantage
You will need to be available to work on Monday to Thursday each week.
Some flexibility around location and hours will be required in Co. Mayo
Previous experience of working with databases and Microsoft Office suite are desirable.
Knowledge and Skills
Previous experience of developing and delivering projects or programmes
Previous experience of working with people with disabilities is required
Knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety regulations, as well as transport safety and standards of use are essential
Behaviours
The ability to lead a team and work on own initiative
An ability to build strong relationships at all levels and show confidence among the team
Strong customer service focus
Be of good character
Competencies
Communicating and Influencing
Motivating and Empowering
Innovation and Creativity
Planning and Organising
Quality and Customer Focus
Remuneration & Benefits
The current pay scale is subject to a 9.25% pay increase over the next 2 years (2025 up to October 2026), aligning with the recent WRC agreement aimed at enhancing pay adjustments within Section 39 organizations.
Hourly rate for this position is from €15.39 to €17.12 DOE
Excellent working conditions
Training & development opportunities
25 days annual leave pro rata
Access to Defined Contribution Pension scheme
Access to group VHI & HSF Health Cash Plans
Employee Assistance Service
The closing date for applications is Tuesday 30th September 2025
Documentary evidence of your relevant qualification(s) will be required in advance of or during the recruitment process.