INOU Upcoming Training

Spring/Summer

• Introduction to Social Welfare - May 3rd/4th 10am – 1pm (Two half-days in online course) (This course is fully booked)
• Welfare to Work - May 25th/26th, June 1st/2nd 10am – 1pm (Four half-days in online course)

Autumn

• Introduction to Social Welfare – 12th/13th September, 10am – 1pm (Two half-days in online course)
• Welfare to Work - 19th/20th/26th/27th September, 10am – 1pm (Four half-days in online course)

The Introduction to Social Welfare online course, run over two half-days, is designed to prepare Welfare Rights and Information Workers to assist people in dealing with the complexities of the Social Welfare system in Ireland. This training course has been developed as an integral part of a wider range of training services provided by the INOU that are designed to meet the practical needs of information providers. This course is particularly suited to both the newer information worker and any person within an organisation who may be involved in the support of information provision. Through our extensive knowledge of the complex nature of information provision associated with 'Social Welfare' issues we have designed this course to provide the participant with the basic skills and knowledge necessary to successfully work within their organisation.

As part of this training, we outline the history of the Irish Social Welfare system and the changes that have taken place. We also address the various aspects of the 'relationship' between the client and the information provider. The module will inform participants of the range of payments and how to qualify for them and includes an explanation of the appeals process as well. Those new to the area of welfare rights, and information provision, will find this course an invaluable grounding in the practical and theoretical operation of the Irish social welfare system as it applies to unemployment and unemployed people. The Introduction to Social Welfare training course costs €100 per person for member organisations and €120 per person for non-members.

Welfare to Work is an online training course, held over four half-days, designed to provide relevant information to those working in direct contact with unemployed people returning to the workplace. Looking at the issues and options involved in making the transition from welfare to work, this course is primarily intended for those working in a frontline capacity assisting unemployed people to return to work. Participants are expected to have a basic understanding of the social welfare system. Topics covered include welfare payments when working, labour market integration programmes, training and education options, taxation and effects on secondary benefits and medical cards.

As part of this training course, we outline how to access social welfare payments and who can access what payments. We discuss and explain the use of Social Welfare Acts, Regulations, Statutory Instruments, and internal Departmental Guidelines. Means testing of the different categories of Social Welfare payments is explained in detail with many practical examples and case studies. The module will also inform participants how returning to work will affect their client’s social welfare payments. The Welfare to Work training course costs €200 per person for INOU member organisations and €240 per person for non-members.

If you would like to book your place or would like further information on the online courses, please contact our Training Administrator, Marie at trainingadmin@inou.ie.