Men’s Aid Ireland is the only dedicated support service for male victims of domestic violence in Ireland. We support thousands of men and their families through the trauma of Coercive Control and Domestic Violence every year.
We are currently seeking applications for the position of Court Support worker.
This position will be primarily based in Limerick District Court Office, Limerick, but on occasion you may be asked to accompany a service user to other Limerick regional court offices.
The Position
For many people the prospect of attending court for any reason is a daunting or frightening experience. The men we support are already living with the trauma of domestic violence, so stress and anxiety levels are often at heightened levels. The role of the Court Accompaniment worker is to support the man emotionally and relieve some of his anxieties by attending court with him explaining the process involved in obtaining court orders and guiding the man through the required court procedures and legal jargon. We offer emotional and practical support to the man both before and after court date and explain follow up options and obligations.
Main Duties include:
- To provide legal information on family law issues, domestic violence orders and court procedures.
- To support clients around safety issues and legal matters in relation to domestic violence orders.
- Provide referrals to other organisations/sources of support.
- Provide information about victim’s rights and information on relevant court orders.
- Maintain all records and files in line with Men’s Aid procedures, policies and guidelines.
- To adhere to Men’s Aid Child Protection policy and make child protection referrals if necessary.
- To stay up to date on the changes of policies, legislation and additional support available within the area of domestic violence and attend all in-house training when required.
Requirements:
Court accompaniment workers most importantly be able to provide a non-judgmental listening ear while adhering to the boundaries of the role. Empathy & confidentiality are most important and awareness of and adherence to the boundaries of the role.
- Empathy and a willingness to support male victims of domestic violence.
- Excellent listening, communication and interpersonal skills
- Flexibility, reliability and willingness to travel.
- Self-motivated
- Ability to work independently on their own initiative and as part of a team.
- Possesses the ability to work in very busy or quiet environments.
- Ability to follow guidelines and represent the charity in a positive manner.
- 1 year commitment with a minimum of 2 day per week (case depending)
- Previous experience in the key working/court accompaniment with vulnerable clients an advantage.
- Full driving license and access to a car essential.
Experience:
The ideal candidate would have
- A minimum of 2 years’ experience within the area of domestic violence.
- Previous experience as a court accompaniment worker.
- Knowledge of the workings of family court, domestic violence orders, guardianship, custody and other basic family law matters.
Interested candidates please submit your CV with cover letter to Bernadette at, HR@mensaid.ie
Closing date for applications is Friday 6th October 2023.
