Community Link Worker, Medigroup, Cork, €20 ph

MEDIGROUP, CATHEDRAL ROAD, CORK CITY

Medigroup surgery was established in 1961 and consists of two separate practices: Monahan & Monahan Practice and Coffey-O’Sullivan Practice. As a dedicated family practice in the heart of the community, our mission is to provide quality, patient-centred care for all.

Job Title: Community Link Worker

Part-time: 24 hours per week

Salary: €39,520 – €41,600 F.T.E.

Location: On site, Medigroup Surgery

Reporting to: Doctors & Practice Managers

Community Link Work Role:

The community link worker will connect with patients who have been referred within the practice for social prescribing and use a multidisciplinary approach to support access to vital community and social services. They will actively engage with the patient to identify their needs and provide a structured care plan that will focus on personal development, health and wellbeing. (See detailed description below).

Responsibilities:

· Engage with individuals to understand their needs, preferences and goals and collaboratively develop personalized plans for social prescribing.

· Offer non-judgmental and supportive assistance, respecting diversity and lifestyle choices while adopting a strengths-based approach.

· Schedule and manage appointments with individuals, ensuring timely follow-ups, and act as the primary point of contact throughout their social prescription journey.

· Facilitate access to community groups, support services, mental health resources and lifestyle changes to help individuals make positive changes and achieve their goals.

· Provide guidance and information on social welfare support and assist individuals in completing medical card, illness benefit and disability allowance forms.

· Offer information and support to patients about applying for social housing, maintaining regular contact with Cork City Council’s housing allocations team, housing officers and emergency accommodation team.

· Hold regular monthly meetings with the medical team at the practice to discuss patients’ progress and identify further support requirements.

REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge and experience:

· A third-level qualification in a Social, Community or Health related field.

· Experience in supporting diverse communities to improve health and wellbeing.

· Familiarity with health promotion and addressing social determinants of health.

· Proficient in IT for record-keeping and reporting.

· Minimum 3 years of experience in community development, healthcare, or a related field.

· Previous experience providing one-on-one support to individuals or groups.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

· Ability to build collaborative working relationships with medical professionals and community organisations.

· Strong listening and empathic skills to provide person-centred support to patients.

· Ability to inspire trust and confidence in patients, motivating them to take charge of their wellbeing.

· Excellent organisational and time management skills to meet deadlines and manage multiple appointments effectively.

· Effective communication with medical professionals and other stakeholders.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team within a medical practice environment.

· Flexibility and adaptability to respond to the changing needs of patients.

Evaluating information, problem solving, and decision-making skills:

· Analytical abilities to assess patient’s needs and recommend appropriate support services.

· Recognition and response to potential risks or challenges in supporting patients.

· Knowing when to refer patients to other healthcare professionals for specialised care.

· Attributes and Commitment to Quality Service:

· Empathic and non-judgmental approach to working with patients.

· Dedication to maintaining high standards of professionalism and providing a quality service.

· Willingness to continuously improve knowledge and skills relevant to the role.

· Adherence to policies and procedures, including safeguarding and confidentiality.

Other Requirements:

· Garda Vetting.

· Familiarity with the Cork City area (desirable).

Job Type: Part-time
Part-time hours: 24 per week

Salary: €19.00-€20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexitime

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Flexitime
• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Cork City, CO. Cork: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 30/11/2023
Reference ID: LINKWORKER2023