Responsible to:
Head of Guardian Ad Litem Service Works with: Children subject to court proceedings, GAL team, Courts, TUSLA and families.
What's the Role and Service?Job PurposeIn response to appointment by Courts, to provide Guardian ad Litem representation for named child/children who are subject of Court Proceedings.
To assist courts by acting as expert witness to ensure that the interests and needs of children are at the centre of the court's decisions.
Minimum Qualifications (as per CAAB guidelines)Possess a third level qualification in Social Work recognised by the National Social Work Qualifications Board (NSWQ), psychology or other third level qualification relevant to the role.
Applicant must be registered with relevant registration body where applicable.
Have a minimum of 5 years' post-qualification direct experience in child welfare and/or protection work.
Have an understanding of child care and family lawHave knowledge and experience of the courts systemPossess analytical capabilityHave well-developed interpersonal skillsBe skilled in communicating with children of different ages and circumstances.
Have relevant report writing skills.
Core Job RequirementsIndependently ascertain and report to the Court, without interpretation, the wishes and feelings of the child in relation to the circumstances of the Court ProceedingsComprehensively assess the child's needsIdentify and interview all parties with a bona fide interest in the welfare of the childRead all relevant recordsFurnish a full report to the Court, with interim reports if required, providing the Court with specific recommendations as to how the child's best interest can be metMake a clear recommendation as to the most appropriate Order to be made, if anyAttend all Court hearings as required and give oral evidence as requestedUse a partnership approach in working with courts, children, parents, and agencies and professionals involved in the child's lifeUndertake all work, in an independent professional manner in accordance with Barnardos Guardian ad Litem Service Standards, policies & proceduresComply with their obligations under data protection legislationMaintain accurate financial records/expenses in relation to each case, working to agreed service targetsConduct work in an efficient and cost-effective mannerManage case administration including ability to use PC, e-mail and case management system (GALSY).Maintain appropriate liaison with the Head of Guardian ad Litem Service and administration staffShare knowledge and skills within the GAL groupAt least five years post graduate experience of working with children and families within child protection and child welfare systems.
A thorough knowledge of children's developmental needs, knowledge of Court systems, working methods and general requirements.
Experience of working co-operatively with other agencies.
Experience of child and family assessment.
Experience of preparing reports for courts and other public bodies.
Experience of giving evidence in court on behalf of children.
Up to date knowledge of current research in all areas of Social Work, Child Care, and Child Welfare.
Core SkillsThe successful candidate must demonstrate proven skills in these areas:
Capacity to work alone.
Capacity to manage own time effectively and efficiently.
Ability to present clear oral and written evidence to courts.
Ability to represent the wishes and interests of children to an expert level.
Ability to work effectively with children and families in a short time frame.
Ability to sensitively communicate with children of all ages and backgrounds.
Capacity to work impartially and in partnership with professionals and family members.
Ability to maintain professional independence.
Ability to seek consultation/advice when required.
Commitment to continued professional development.
Ability to work in a manner which promotes equality and respects diversity.
Ability to communicate clearly and contribute to the sharing of information in line with the Communications Policy.
QualificationsSocial Work – social work applicants must have a NQSW or equivalent.
Psychology – psychology applicants should have a recognised post-graduate qualification or equivalent.
Requirements specific to the freelance postGuardians will be self-employed and working from their own premises and will work to a Freelance Contract of Service, but working to Barnardos Guardian ad Litem Service guidelines and standards.
Requirements of all Barnardos staff and contractorsCommitment to the purpose of Barnardos and to work within the values, policies and procedures of the organisation and in the context of current legislation and regulations.
To participate in regular supervision with your supervisorTo actively participate in team meetings and service reviews/ evaluations and to contribute to the development of policy and practice with your area of work.
To report any area of concern to your supervisor or the service managers in a timely manner.
To show reasonable flexibility in relation to hours of attendance to meet the needs of the work.
Work during unsocial hours may be required.
Have a flexible approach to the work in response to organisational change, development and review of best practice.
Participate in and engage with practice review meetings.
Identify training opportunities with your supervisor or manager and participate in training opportunities appropriate to the role.
To be vigilant to any Health, Safety and Welfare risks in the workplace and bring any concerns to the attention of a Guardian ad Litem service manager or Health & Safety Officer.
To undertake your work in a manner that is friendly, flexible and informal.
Note:
This Job Description will be reviewed and updated in line with the needs of the work.
Application ProcedureTo apply please submit:
CV (Please give 3 referees, one of whom must be the current or last employer)Detailed submission regarding your suitability for the post (maximum 1,200 words).
This should relate your qualifications, experience and knowledge base to the work of the Guardian ad Litem as set out in the Job Description.
If you are selected for interview you will be asked to present a short report and to address a case study in the interview.
Details will be provided when candidates are shortlisted.
Upload your application form - CVs alone will not be accepted.
LOCATION:
Dublin
Employment Type:
Freelance
Contact Person:
[Insert Contact Person]
Closing Date:
[Insert Closing Date]
Interview Date:
Wednesday, 19th and Thursday, 20th March 2025 in Dublin
Barnardos (Republic of Ireland) is a company limited by guarantee.
Company registration number:
Registered charity number:
CHY:
6015.
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