Support Assistant Vacancy

DSCNE
Jul 31
2 min read

Job Title: Support Assistant

Location: The Down Syndrome Centre North East, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan

Reports to: Centre Manager

About Us

The Down Syndrome Centre North East (DSCNE), established in 2017, is a parent-led charity dedicated to providing essential support and services to children with Down syndrome and their families in the North East region of Ireland, including Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, Meath and surrounding areas. Our mission is to empower individuals with Down syndrome to achieve their full potential and lead independent, fulfilling lives.

We provide a family-centred, multidisciplinary approach to the delivery of essential services, support, and information to individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. We are seeking an enthusiastic individual with a can-do attitude and a love for working with children.

Purpose of support Assistant Role

To support and assist therapists and teachers in delivering group-based programmes and activities for children in small, welcoming, and stimulating settings such as Early Intervention, School Aged Programmes, and Social Groups. This role also involves maintaining a safe, child-friendly environment and supporting the development of services in collaboration with the Centre Manager and Services & Activities Coordinator.

Key Accountabilities

Greet and welcome service users and their parent/accompanying adult upon arrival at DSCNE
Support children in small group settings alongside the therapist/teacher, aiding as required and directed
Help meet the physical and developmental needs of all children
Supervise children while therapist/teacher participates in other activities
Assist with personal care, hygiene, and toileting when necessary
Support children at snack/feeding times where needed
Complete accident/incident reports as required
Clean and sanitise equipment and rooms before and after sessions
Maintain a safe physical environment and report any hazards or risks
Contribute to quality improvement by reviewing programmes, identifying changing needs, and supporting the development of new services
Responsible for opening and closing the Centre when required

Essential Criteria

Minimum QQI Level 5 Early Years qualification and/or completed QQI Special Needs Assistant (SNA) training
Minimum 2 years’ experience working in a childcare or school setting
Garda Vetting is required and will be conducted by DSCNE

Desirable Criteria

Experience working with children or adults with disabilities is a distinct advantage
Previous experience in a community or non-profit organisation is desirable
Familiarity with or interest in Lámh sign language is highly valued
First Aid and Child Protection training are advantageous

Contract Details

Hours of Work: Fixed-term, part-time contract (minimum 15 hours per week), subject to renewal. Saturdays are a requirement.

Rate of Pay: €15.00 per hour Start Date: September 2025

How to apply

Send your CV and an application form to Caitriona Crosby, Centre Manager by Thursday 21st August, 5pm:

Email: manager@dscnortheast.ie

Or by post: DSCNE, Units 15-18 CTEK 1, Riverside Road, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan A81 FY61

A panel of suitable applicants may be formed to fill future vacancies