Rural Social Scheme
About Rural Social Scheme
The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is a part-time work placement programme designed specifically for farmers and fishermen and women who are in receipt of means-assessed long-term social welfare payments. It provides a supplementary income while giving participants the opportunity to contribute to their local community through meaningful, practical work.
Delivered by DLDC across County Donegal, the RSS currently employs 148 participants supporting over 88 community groups across more than 50 villages and towns throughout the county. Placements run at 19.5 hours per week and are scheduled to accommodate the demands of farming and fishing, ensuring participants can continue to manage their land or vessel alongside their placement.
The scheme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and plays a vital role in supporting rural communities while providing financial stability to those working in agriculture and fishing.
How We Can Help
DLDC coordinates the RSS across County Donegal, working with participants, host organisations, and community groups to ensure placements run smoothly and deliver real value on the ground. Our team of supervisors is spread across the county, providing regular on-site support throughout each placement.
Beyond the core placement programme, DLDC also operates the Community Hands Support Team, which extends practical assistance to voluntary and charitable groups across the region. Whether your organisation needs an extra pair of hands for a project or transport support for materials and equipment, Community Hands is here to help.
For Farmers and Fishermen and Women
If you are a farmer or fisher in receipt of means-assessed social welfare, you may be eligible to join the RSS. Placement roles are available across a range of areas including caretaking, cleaning, environmental work, administration, childcare, and youth work. Schedules are designed to work around your existing commitments, and our supervisors provide regular support throughout your placement. To apply, submit an Expression of Interest to info@dldc.org.
Community Hands Support
The Community Hands Support Team offers free, practical assistance to voluntary and charitable organisations across County Donegal. Groups can request direct project support from the Community Hands team for small tasks and community projects, or borrow the Community Van for transporting materials and equipment. This service is available to any eligible voluntary or charitable group. To find out more or submit a request, contact info@dldc.org.
Documentation
Team
Karen McGinley
Schemes Department Manager
Renata Musial
Schemes Team Leader
Denise McHugh
Schemes Team Leader
Patrick McDaid
RSS Supervisor
Maura Moss
RSS Supervisor (South Donegal)
Angela Wren
RSS Supervisor