Are you a purpose driven individual who is passionate about making a difference and helping some of society’s most vulnerable children? At Barnardos, we pride ourselves on delivering impactful services that make a difference to the lives of children and families across Ireland.

We believe that childhood lasts a lifetime. As trauma informed specialists our core purpose is to provide the necessary support for children to overcome childhood adversity, embedding a trauma informed ethos and practice into every service we provide. 

What can we offer you?

As a Child and Family Development Worker we appreciate the value of your time when providing essential support to our services, that’s why we have the necessary support structures and network in place that will allow you to make a real impact on the lives of children across Ireland. We also offer the following:

Barnardos offers a competitive salary – recognising the experience you bring to the role

• Generous annual leave entitlements plus discretionary Company days
• Employee pension scheme with employer contribution/ Company Sick Pay Scheme
• Access to regular trauma informed support, supervision, training and many other professional development opportunities
• Tax saver and bike to work schemes in operation
• Access to the Employee Assistance/Wellbeing programme for employees and their immediate family members 

What’s the role and service?

In your role as a Child and Family Development Worker you will provide quality services to children who experience disadvantage in partnership with families / carers and other agencies in order to support children’s development.

What will my day to day look like?

• Designing , implementing and evaluating individual and group programmes for children and their families.
• Being vigilant for signs of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, neglect and any concerns regarding the welfare of children. To record concerns promptly and accurately. To consult with the Designated Person and take appropriate action in accordance with Barnardos Child Protection policy.
• Liaising with other agencies in order to provide an integrated approach to the needs of children and families, and to attend and contribute to reviews and case conferences as required.
• Choosing, organising, presenting and caring for equipment and materials relevant to the project.
• Supervising students and volunteers where necessary and to ensure they are aware of all Barnardos policies and compile placement reports as appropriate.
• Gathering information statistics and preparing reports as required, including administration of databases as appropriate to the role.

What experience do I need? 

A minimum of two years’ post-qualification experience of working with children (young children if relevant) and families, required. Experience of working with children who face disadvantage is desirable.

Do I need a qualification?

A recognised third level practice qualification[1] (minimum Level 7 on the QQI) in one of the following: Social Care/ Education / Social Work / Youth Work /Early Childhood Care and Education or a related discipline e.g. Nursing/ Psychology / Early Years Education

Barnardos is an equal opportunity employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

Closing date: 30 April 2026

Interview date: Week commencing 11 May 2026

You can download the full Job Description for this role, by clicking on the button below. 

To apply, please complete the personal and professional information sections below, and upload your CV. Please specify the number of hours per week for each of your roles that you have detailed on your CV. 

Click ‘Apply Now’ today.