The primary role of the Integration Support Worker (ISW) in the dlr Local Authority Integration team (LAIT) is to provide ongoing integration supports to International Protection (IP) applicants, Programme Refugees and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTP) to enable them to live independently in the community.
This will involve linking these cohorts with local service providers and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) appropriate to their needs. The LAITs will also act as the direct point of contact, providing information, signposting, guidance and advice, answering queries as they arise and ensuring that they are in receipt of applicable benefits and entitlements.
The ISW will support the Integration Support Coordinator in the delivery of services including support in accessing employment and developing English language proficiency; childcare, healthcare services and linkages to sporting and other local / community activities.
The LAITs will engage with the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) during the period of resettlement. Grant agreements, put in place to support this process through integration projects, will set out the relationship including a referral process to provide integration supports to programme refugees.
The LAITs are not intended to replace mainstream service provision but to support IP applicants, Programme Refugees and BOTP in accessing mainstream services.
The position of Integration Support Worker is a middle management position within DLRCC and is assigned responsibility for the day to day administration and management of an area of the Council’s activities. An Integration Support Worker in the Council is required to be an effective, participative leader of a team with responsibility for organisation and management of all aspects of a section or sections including the supervision of staff.
The Integration Support Worker is a key point of contact and liaison with other Sections or Departments in relation to all operational matters for the service delivery section or sections for which they are responsible.
The Integration Support Worker is expected to carry out their duties with an understanding of the political context of local government and in such a manner that enhances public trust and confidence and ensures impartial decision making.