A total of 50 new home care jobs Waterford and East Cork are to be created this year, as growing demand for in-home support services continues to reshape Ireland’s healthcare landscape.
The positions form part of a wider national recruitment drive by Bluebird Care, which plans to hire 1,500 staff across the country in 2026.
Rising demand driving recruitment
The expansion reflects increasing demand for home care services, particularly as Ireland’s population continues to age.
New projections from the Central Statistics Office suggest that the number of people aged 65 and over will exceed one million by 2030 and could reach 1.6 million by 2051. At the same time, research from the ESRI indicates that the number of home support hours required annually could grow significantly by 2040.
This rising demand is a key factor behind the creation of new home care jobs Waterford, with vacancies now open for immediate start across the region.
Range of roles to support community care
The jobs will include positions for healthcare assistants, nurses and care support staff, with a focus on helping older people and those with disabilities remain living independently in their own homes.
According to Brian Egan, Managing Director of the local Bluebird Care operation covering the South East, demand for services has increased rapidly in recent years.
“These 50 new jobs across Waterford and East Cork reflect the growing need for home care in our communities,” he said.
The roles are expected to support individuals in maintaining independence, dignity and connection to their local communities.
Shift towards home-based care
The growth in home care jobs Waterford also reflects a broader shift in how care is delivered, with more people choosing to remain in their homes for as long as possible.
Research from Sage Advocacy suggests that more than 70% of older adults would find it emotionally difficult to leave their homes, while only a small proportion believe suitable independent living options currently exist.
Industry figures also highlight the economic impact of home care, with studies indicating that investment in the sector generates wider benefits for the economy.
National recruitment drive underway
The Waterford and East Cork recruitment forms part of a wider national campaign aimed at attracting workers into the care sector.
Bluebird Care has said successful applicants will receive training, ongoing support and opportunities for career development as part of its care model.
Chief Operating Officer Mark McInerney said the sector will continue to expand in the coming years.
“Ireland is changing quickly. More people are living longer, and more families want quality care delivered in their own homes,” he said.
Growing sector expected to expand further
With demand projected to rise sharply over the coming decades, the creation of home care jobs Waterford is likely to be part of a broader trend across the healthcare system.
The continued expansion of home-based care services is expected to play a key role in meeting future needs, particularly as pressure grows on hospitals and residential care facilities.
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