National Safegaurding Support Officer

We would like to invite applications for the following new, full-time, permanent role.

National Safeguarding Support Officer

Location Flexible

IWA is committed to promoting and maintaining our diverse and inclusive work environment

The purpose of the role is to provide direct support to the safeguarding functions across IWA-Sport and the Services Safeguarding Designated Teams. The person will report directly to the National Safeguarding Manager to ensure the highest standards of safeguarding practice are maintained. For the successful implementation of this role there are several key relationships which should be fostered and developed. Primarily these will be with the National Safeguarding Manager, SMT, Area/Regional Managers, National Development Officers, IWA-Sport Management Team, Managers of Services/Departments and Service Coordinators.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Manage the IWA-Sport Safeguarding workplan to ensure full compliance with all statutory requirements.

Under the direction of the National Safeguarding Manager to work closely with the Safeguarding Designated Teams (Services & Sport) to implement agreed actions to respond to specific cases, to support local teams to review learning from cases and to influence the implementation of the learning to improve practice across all relevant services and departments.

Provide direct support to the network of Safeguarding Officers that operate across the IWA-Sport Clubs and Sections.

Collaborate closely with the IWA-Sport Management Team to minimize the risk of harm across all IWA-Sport local, national and international activities.

Deliver relevant safeguarding training programmes across the IWA-Sport employees and volunteers.

Report safeguarding concerns to the appropriate statutory authorities in accordance with legislation and national policy.

Operate as a Mandated Person as per the Children First Act 2015.

Operate as a Designated Officer as per the HSE Adult Safeguarding Policy 2014.

To support the National Safeguarding Manager to ensure that all safeguarding data is retained in accordance with IWA policies and procedures.

To support the National Safeguarding Manager to produce internal and external periodic reports.

Support the implementation of the annual safeguarding self-audit process.

Participate in relevant internal and external working groups to progress the IWA strategic objectives.

Ensure complaints, investigations and safeguarding concerns are managed in line with IWA policies and procedures.

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.

Support IWA’s fundraising activities.

Carry out any other related duties as required.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Training, Experience and Qualifications

A QQI Level 6 degree or professional qualification or higher in one of the following disciplines: Safeguarding / Applied Social Studies / Community Work, General Management is essential.

QQI Level 6 Train the Trainer is advantageous.

Previous experience in the areas of training or facilitation is required.

Clear understanding of safeguarding structures and processes in sporting and community settings is required.

Previous experience of working within the disability sector or similar services is an advantage.

Candidates from other sectors need to be able to demonstrate that they have relevant transferable skills.

A full driver's license and use of your own car is essential.

Working Hours and Location

Blended working arrangement (office base and remote working).

Availability to work evenings and weekends is essential.

Knowledge and Skills

Expert knowledge of safeguarding processes, relevant legislation and statutory requirements.

Strong communication, listening, creativity, problem solving and decision-making skills.

Strong time management and planning skills.

Excellent negotiation and influencing skills.

Experience of working with people with disabilities or a marginalised group is desirable.

Strong administrative and excellent IT skills (Microsoft Office & Database Management) are essential.

Fluent English speaker.

Behaviours

The ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team.

Person centered approach.

An ability to build strong relationships at all levels.

Strong customer service focus.

Flexible approach to work.

High level of confidentiality.

Competencies

Reporting & Confidentiality

Critical analysis & decision making

Communicating & influencing

Motivating & empowering

Adaptability, drive & resilience

Accountability

Remuneration & Benefits

Annual Salary range between €32,270 to €49,299 DOE

Vouched expenses and mileage

Excellent working conditions

Training & development opportunities

25 days annual leave

Access to Defined Contribution Pension Scheme

Access to VHI & HSF Health Cash Plans.

Employee Assistance Service

Bike to Work Scheme

The closing date for applications is Friday 13th June 2025

INDHP

Documentary evidence of your relevant qualification(s) may/will be required in advance of or during the recruitment process.