STAFF GRADE PSYCHOLOGIST
SPECIFIED PURPOSE CONTRACT (X 1 YEARS).
HSE SOCIAL INCLUSION CORK AND KERRY AND COOLMINE
TAKING UP APPOINTMENT: To be agreed at job offer stage
LOCATION OF POST: This post will be based in Cork City South with a
remit that spans services across Cork and Kerry
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
* The post-holder will be operationally line managed by Coolmine
Manager.
* Clinical supervision and professional line management will be
senior psychologist and / or the HSE Principal Psychology Manager for
Social Inclusion in Cork and Kerry.
DETAILS OF SERVICE AND PURPOSE OF POST
Coolmine is a leading drug and alcohol treatment service providing
community, day and residential services to men and women with
problematic substance use and their families in Ireland established
since *. Coolmine Therapeutic Community
believes that everyone should have the opportunity to overcome
addiction and lead a fulfilled and productive life.
Coolmine, in conjunction with Cork Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force
and Southern Regional Drug & Alcohol Task Force has developed 6
community-based drug and alcohol hubs to deliver frontline
community-based drug & alcohol treatment interventions in the Cork &
Kerry region. In addition, funding has recently been secured to
develop services for clients specifically using cocaine / crack,
resulting in the recruitment of 3 WTE Project Workers and 1 WTE Staff
Grade Psychologist.
PROJECT SUMMARY
The overall service will focus specifically on reducing cocaine/crack
use across the South West, but will be tightly integrated within the
existing and broader drug and alcohol services / structures within
Coolmine. Service Users will be identified through the standard
assessment/referral from Coolmine or other regional services or
self-referral. In keeping with the broader established Coolmine
services, this project will focus on a biopsychosocial approach and
family systems approach to the assessment, intervention and case
management. There will be an emphasis on working with organisations,
supports and services already involved in clients’ lives to improve
overall outcomes. Project workers will carry out structured
assessments and co-ordinated and case manage care packages across
involved services and supports to meet the needs of clients as well as
delivering evidence based interventions such as ‘Reduce the Use’
and ‘Community Reinforcement plus Voucher programmes.
The service will also provide coordinated care following discharge for
a discrete period of time. This is a project based service and as such
there will be significant emphasis on service based evaluations to
directly inform and shape ongoing evidence-based service development /
delivery which is effective in improving outcomes for clients and is
cost effective.
The project team will consist of:
* 3.0 WTE Cocaine/Crack specific Project Workers based in the
community Hubs – Kerry, Cork City and Cork County. In consultation
with others the project workers will set up, and deliver an assertive
outreach service. They will manage and conduct referrals and
assessment / intervention programmes. They will report to the Coolmine
Team Leader and will collaborate and work in the context of the
existing well established Coolmine supports and services
* 1.0 WTE Clinical Psychologist to develop and pilot a psychological
service to meet the psychological needs of clients directly and to
provide psychological consultation, training and support to project
workers to help them meet the needs of clients. The psychologist will
also be responsible for service based research to determine the
efficacy of the service and to directly inform the delivery,
development and improvement of this project. There is a significant
service based research brief. The project will thus be rooted in a
scientist – practitioner model and evidence-based practice, with the
goal of significantly enhanced outcomes for clients.
* The psychologist will drive the development of a trauma informed
approach. This psychologist will provide consultancy and support to
actively help develop an effective service which can be replicated
elsewhere to meet the needs of this clients group. The psychologist
will develop a clinical psychology service which is fully integrated
into the project and service. As part of this, they will carry a
reduced clinical caseload to help meet the psychological needs of
clients in the context of their drug use.
This project will take an assertive engagement approach with clients.
It will afford an opportunity for a meaningful integrated approach to
care across Drug and Alcohol, Homeless, Prison, Mental Health,
Pre-Hospital and Emergency Medicine Services, Sexual Health Service
and Courts Screening and Brief Intervention or whatever services are a
key part of client’s lives and important to support them to enjoy
improved quality of life.
The project will responds to clinical recommendations to meet the
needs of clients from independent evaluation / recommendations made by
members of the case-management framework across Drug and Alcohol,
Homeless and Prison Services in that it presents the opportunity to
engage with Emergency Medicine, Liaison Psychiatry (in the context of
hospital discharge to Coolmine services for cocaine/crack users)
All necessary supports will be provided to ensure the success of this
project. The psychologist will be supported with access to training or
other specific supports, as needed, to ensure the success of this
project. Other supports an support structures include:
* Categorical buy in and full support from Coolmine, the HSE, and
Task Force Senior Management and commitment to maximise use of
existing resources and supporting the development of this project.
* All new positions associated with this new project will align with
established case-management system and existing resources leading to a
safe structure to develop the new service, as well as durability and
sustainability post-funding
* Full access to the intensive case-management framework and
resources in place.
* Full access to the network of collaboration already systematically
established with HSE, relevant NGOs and Drug and Alcohol Services
The psychologist will take a lead role in coordinating the Clinical
Quality and Safety Group and the project will be developed in
alignment with the Clinical Quality and Safety Governance within
existing drug and alcohol services.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
SERVICE BASED RESEARCH TO INFORM THE DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF AN
EFFECTIVE SERVICE TO COCAINE / CRACK USERS.
* Conduct quantitative and qualitative, service based research on an
on-going basis to directly inform and support the development and
delivery of an effective service which has evidence based and
effective practice to the fore.
* Monitoring of client needs and outcomes over time.
* Dissemination of data and recommendations, as well as provision of
the necessary training, support and consultancy to the project team,
Coolmine and the other supporting agencies to develop and improve
service provision.
DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF A PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICE
CLINICAL REMIT
* Develop, deliver and evaluate a psychological service which
support the reduction of cocaine / crack use. This will include the
provision of psychological assessment and intervention services which
meet the psychological needs of clients in the context of cocaine /
crack use.
* Develop, deliver and evaluate a range of psychological supports
and services to meet the needs of clients indirectly through the
provision of psychological consultation, psychoeducation, training and
other supports as appropriate to staff on the project team, Hub teams
and staff in the broader drug and alcohol services.
* Provide psychological supports to improve knowledge and
understanding of the psychological / mental needs of cocaine users and
how to effectively meet these needs.
* Assist in the development and dissemination of psychoeducational
or other resources to support clients’ and / or service providers
across Cork and Kerry.
* Assist in the development and delivery of trauma-focused
interventions and a trauma focused intervention service for project
Workers and other team members as appropriate.
* Where appropriate and within the parameters of this limited
resource, develop and deliver a range of population level / group
level interventions.
* Improve health outcomes for cocaine users from a health equality
perspective by informing and influencing the delivery of a service
which circumvents access and engagement barriers.
* Collate and develop culturally sensitive and trauma sensitive
resources for use by families, health services, or others and in
conjunction with identified partners.
* Actively development and provide services which are culturally
sensitive and trauma sensitive.
* Develop and maintain service policies as appropriate,
record-keeping, notes and good file management.
INTERAGENCY WORK
* Working in close collaboration with Cork Kerry Community
Healthcare Social Inclusion services, community-based services and
NGOs to help meet the needs of the client group.
* Work with both community and statutory providers to initiate
health and wellbeing programmes
* Further develop, update and evaluate the resource packs / website
for frontline staff (including GPs). Explore the development of online
resources
* Liaise with existing Cork Kerry Community Healthcare staff and
Community / Voluntary sector staff with expertise in this area
* Link with identified Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Heads of
Service as required
* To support the broader Social Inclusion teams, through the
provision of clinical supervision to trainees and assistant
psychologists when required.
REVIEW, EVALUATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
* Ensure service-user and front-line staff feedback mechanisms
* Identify models of good practice in other areas and adapt for use
in Cork and Kerry as required / as appropriate
* Ensure appropriate monitoring, evaluation and review of the work
undertaken and programmes delivered
* Identify and develop collaborative partnerships and programmes in
response to identified needs
SELF-CARE
The Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Social Inclusion Psychology
Service recognises the traumatic nature of the experiences of some
clients and the personal demands of the work. As such, there is a
culture of care, support and compassion within the Psychology service,
the broader Social Inclusion team and Drug and Alcohol services. The
post-holder will be encouraged to place a strong personal emphasis on
his/her own self-care and to actively nurture the existing culture of
care and compassion for clients and between colleagues.
_THE ABOVE JOB DESCRIPTION IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A COMPREHENSIVE LIST
OF ALL DUTIES INVOLVED AND CONSEQUENTLY, THE POST-HOLDER MAY BE
REQUIRED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES AS APPROPRIATE TO THE POST WHICH MAY
BE ASSIGNED TO HIM/HER FROM TIME-TO-TIME AND TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE
DEVELOPMENT OF THE POST WHILE IN OFFICE._
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
QUALIFICATIONS AND/ OR EXPERIENCE
Each candidate must, at the closing date for the campaign, hold:
(a)
* a recognised University degree or diploma (NQAI Level 8
equivalent) obtained with first, or second class, honours in which
psychology was taken as a major subject and honours obtained in that
subject
and
* a postgraduate professional psychological qualification recognised
by the Psychological Society of Ireland in Clinical Psychology, or
Counselling Psychology or Educational Psychology as appropriate to the
area of professional psychology in which the position is designated,
or
a postgraduate professional psychology qualification validated by the
Department of Health and Children in Clinical Psychology, or
Counselling Psychology or Educational Psychology as appropriate to the
area of professional psychology in which the position is designated
and
(b)
* possess the requisite knowledge and ability (including a high
standard of suitability and management ability) for the proper
discharge of the duties of the office.
These qualifications will take effect on the signed date but without
prejudice to anyone employed in a post of basic grade psychologist or
above in the Irish Public Health Service to whom the qualification
requirements for Psychologist – Community Care or Clinical in place
at the *nd January, *
shall apply – just double-checking that the year is **Apply on the
website**
HEALTH
A candidate for and any person holding the office must be fully
competent and capable of undertaking the duties attached to the office
and be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable
prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.
CHARACTER
Each candidate for and any person holding the office must be of good
character
SALARY
The Salary scale for the post is:
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POST SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
* Strong research skills and an ability to use research to directly
inform service development and clinical practice.
* Experience of working in the area of addiction is desirable but
not essential
OTHER REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIC TO THE POSTS
* Demonstrable understanding of/experience in health and
psychological needs of people struggling with addiction and the unique
barriers faced in access to mainstream services
* Access to transport is essential
SKILLS, COMPETENCIES AND/OR KNOWLEDGE
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
* Demonstrable experience of and capacity to work in partnership
with other disciplines, services and other agencies, with client
compassion and a commitment to good outcomes for clients to the fore.
* Capacity to carryout service-based research and evaluations.
* Ability to facilitate workshops and training and to support
service and organisational development.
* Demonstrate sufficient professional knowledge to carry out the
duties and responsibilities of the role.
* Demonstrate experience of applying evidence-based practice.
* Demonstrate an ability to apply knowledge to best practice
PLANNING AND ORGANISING RESOURCES
* Demonstrate ability to plan, organise and deliver evidence-based
services in an efficient, effective and resourceful manner, within a
model of client-centred care and value for money
* Demonstrate good ability to develop and deliver services which
have maximum reach and make the best use of limited resources and is
rooted in evidence based practice.
* Ability to plan, develop and deliver a service, with support from
the Coolmine Team Leader and Principal Psychologist and to evaluate
outcomes so as to continue to improve service delivery.
* Demonstrate ability to manage deadlines and effectively prioritise
workloads
* Demonstrate a commitment to assuring high standards and strive for
a user-centred service.
* Demonstrate initiative and innovation in identifying areas for
service improvement.
* Demonstrate knowledge of Health Service Planning and Delivery
TEAMS SKILLS / PROJECT MANAGEMENT SKILLS
* Demonstrate ability to work as part of a team or on one’s own
initiative
* Demonstrate ability to empathise/treat others with dignity and
respect, including clients, colleagues and other professionals.
* Demonstrate flexibility and openness to change.
* Be able to assess and respond to need quickly, taking a pragmatic
and solution-focused approach.
* Project management skills
ANALYTICAL SKILLS
* Demonstrate ability to evaluate information and make effective
decisions especially with regard to service user care.
COMMUNICATION & INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
* Display effective interpersonal and communication skills (verbal
and written).
* Demonstrate ability to utilise supervision effectively.
* Demonstrate a willingness to develop IT skills relevant to the
role.
* Demonstrate commitment to continuing professional development.
* Demonstrate experience of developing and working in a variety of
partnerships and networks
SELF-CARE SKILLS
A commitment to personal self-care in the context of service
provision.
WORKING ARRANGEMENTS
* Working week: *-hour week, (9am-5pm) 5 days
per week (Monday to Friday) with cross cover arrangements
* Base: Psychology Cork Region housing First, Suite 9, John Dunlop
Building, Marina Commercial Park, Cork.
* Professional governance within Coolmine Clinical Quality and
Safety Structure and HSE Psychology Social Inclusion services.
* Operational line management under Coolmine Team Leader and
Clinical and professional supervision under the Principal Clinical
Psychologist for Social Inclusion.
* Adherence to the Coolmine Clinical Quality and Safety Structure
and HSE Clinical Governance Structures locally
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Interested candidates who meet the Person Specification requirements
should send their CV & cover letter with application reference code to
Dylan Murphy, HR Administrator at *
Please quote this application reference HR/CRK/SER/PSYC/**APPLY ON THE
WEBSITE**
The closing date for applications is THURSDAY THE **APPLY ON THE
WEBSITE**TH OF JUNE **APPLY ON THE WEBSITE**
COOLMINE THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER.
We need : English (Good)
Type: Permanent
Payment:
Category: Health
