Job Overview
Galway University Hospital is seeking a dedicated and experienced Medical Social Worker to join its multidisciplinary team. This is a specified purpose, wholetime position within the HSE West and North West region, offering an excellent opportunity to contribute meaningfully to patient-centred care in an acute hospital setting.
The Medical Social Worker will provide professional social work services to patients and families, supporting assessment, discharge planning, safeguarding, and psychosocial interventions in line with hospital and HSE policies.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive psychosocial assessments to patients and families within the acute hospital environment.
- Deliver therapeutic interventions and crisis support as appropriate to the clinical setting.
- Contribute to discharge planning and coordinated care pathways.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic patient care.
- Advocate on behalf of patients to ensure access to appropriate services and supports.
- Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date case records in accordance with professional standards.
- Participate in case conferences, team meetings, and service development initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with HSE policies, safeguarding procedures, and professional codes of practice.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Recognised qualification in Social Work and eligibility for registration with CORU.
- Demonstrated depth and breadth of social work experience relevant to a medical or acute hospital setting.
- Strong assessment, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Experience working as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
- Knowledge of relevant legislation, child and adult safeguarding frameworks, and best practice guidelines.
- Ability to manage a varied caseload and prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Salary, Benefits & Working Hours
- Salary aligned with HSE Social Worker – Medical (Grade 3557) pay scale.
- Annual increments in line with public sector pay agreements.
- Specified Purpose, Wholetime contract.
- Access to public service pension scheme (subject to eligibility).
- Annual leave entitlement in accordance with HSE guidelines.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development and training.
Location & Employer Information
This Medical Social Worker Galway role is based at Galway University Hospital, part of the HSE West and North West health region, serving counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, and Galway.
Galway University Hospital provides a comprehensive range of acute and specialist services and is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centred healthcare in a collaborative clinical environment.
Application Details
- Reference: G11899
- Category: Health and Social Care Professionals
- Recruiter: HSE West and North West
- Apply Online: View Job & Apply
Informal Enquiries:
Jenny Wren, Social Work Department, GUH
Email: Jenny.Wren@hse.ie
Tel: (091) 544089
Proposed Interview Date:
Interviews will be held as soon as possible after the closing date. Candidates will normally be given at least one week’s notice of interview. The timescale may be reduced in exceptional circumstances.
Last Day to Apply: 08 April 2026 at 10:00 AM

