FAQs for Carers
What is The Great Care Co-op?
GCC is Ireland’s first worker-owned home care cooperative. We provide high-quality home care while creating secure, meaningful jobs for care workers.
How is this different from working for a regular care agency?
You’re not just an employee, you’re a co-owner with a voice.
Carers work in small neighbourhood care teams of up to 12 carers and participate at regular team meetings to discuss how care should be and how to improve any issues arising.
Pay and conditions are better than in normal agencies as we all have shared ownership of the business.
We offer part-time and guaranteed 20-hour contracts, with the option to work more.
As a member of the Co-op, every member gets equal voting rights in co-op decisions. Co-ops are democratic, based on helping ourselves, equality, concern for community and solidarity. Importantly, co-ops pay ourselves well for our work and decide how to spend any surplus.
What are the pay rates?
Probation rate: €15.50/hour
Post-probation: €16.50/hour (higher weekend rates, double time on bank holidays)
Additional increases for Length of Service (3+ years)
Annual bonuses based on co-op performance
As the co-op grows, surplus is shared with members through dividends
What is a hub?
A hub is a small neighbourhood care team (6–12 carers). It promotes teamwork, local scheduling and strong continuity for clients.
Can I become a member of the co-op?
Yes. After passing probation and meeting membership criteria, you can apply to become a co-op member with democratic voting rights. Members can run for the board, join committees and shape how the co-op grows.
What additional benefits are offered?
Sick pay
Mileage/travel reimbursement, Leap cards, Bike-to-Work
Auto-enrolment pension
Quarterly hub team events
Fair scheduling
Member bonuses
How will my voice be heard?
As a member, you have equal voting rights and a real say in decisions at AGMs, committees and through representation. Also, you will participate in discussions at your hubs regular team meetings.
What are GCC’s mission and values?
Mission: Great Care, Great Jobs
Values: Choice, Connection, Cooperation, Community
Vision: A trusted home care community grounded in dignity and human rights
Which areas do you cover?
Our hubs currently operate in Dalkey, Bray and across the Dún Laoghaire area, including Shankill, Killiney, Deansgrange, Cabinteely, Dublin 4 and Blackrock.
How does payroll work?
You’re paid fortnightly via bank transfer, with all statutory deductions handled through payroll. Payslips are issued to you directly.
Is there training and support?
Yes, we offer ongoing training, including HSeLand courses, in-house sessions and GCC’s own e-learning (“The GCC Way”). New staff also have a Buddy for support and the support of a team and Care Coordinator.
What about health & safety?
Your safety matters. We have robust health and safety policies and provide full training. Our co-op was designed by carers, for carers so your safety is a priority.
How do I apply?
Visit our “Home Care Jobs” page. After probation, you may apply to become a co-op member