Apply for MHPSS Officer at Unique Care and Support Foundation (CASFOD)

TABE OF CONTENT

CASFOD Overview
Job details
Role Purpose: MHPSS Officer
Qualifications and Experience
Skills and Competencies:
Application Process

CASFOD Overview

( Unique Care and Support Foundation )

The Unique Care and Support Foundation (CASFOD) is a leading national non-governmental organization focused on advocating for the rights of children and women. With a commitment to supporting the intersection of humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding (HDP) efforts, CASFOD works towards a world where individuals, even in the most remote regions, are empowered to create opportunities for themselves and others. The foundation's programs are designed to promote long-term sustainability, resilience, and empowerment, especially for vulnerable and marginalized groups.

CASFOD’s mission is to create transformative impacts for communities by focusing on the essential sectors of human rights, development, and peace. The organization envisions a world where all children and women, regardless of their background or geographical location, have the ability to thrive, grow, and contribute positively to their communities.

Job details

Job Type	Full Time
Qualification	BA/BSc/HND
Experience	2 years
Location	Borno
City	Maiduguri
Medical / Healthcare, NGO/Non-Profit

Role Purpose: MHPSS Officer

CASFOD is looking for a qualified and motivated individual to serve as a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Officer. The primary role of the MHPSS Officer is to provide mental health and psychosocial services to vulnerable children, their families, and communities, focusing particularly on those at risk of mental and psychological problems. The MHPSS Officer will work with schools, community centers, and various stakeholders to offer counseling services and implement child resilience models, structured play, and other supportive interventions. The overall goal is to ensure that children, caregivers, and communities receive the necessary emotional support and guidance to cope with the challenges they face.

The MHPSS Officer will work closely with various teams in the organization, including those focused on child protection, education, health, and nutrition, to ensure the delivery of integrated services. The role also involves the development and execution of tailored interventions, the assessment of psychosocial needs, and the capacity-building of staff and community members. By providing these services, the MHPSS Officer will contribute to the long-term well-being of children and communities affected by crises.

Key Responsibilities

1. Support the Planning and Implementation of MHPSS Models:

The MHPSS Officer will assist in the planning and rollout of various models aimed at supporting the mental health and well-being of children and their families. These models include child and youth resilience, HEART (Healing and Resilience Training), structured play and recreation, home-based care, individual counseling, and group counseling.
The officer will ensure that all MHPSS interventions adhere to established principles and standards related to child protection and mental health.

2. Capacity Building and Training:

- The MHPSS Officer will build the capacity of counselors, caseworkers, community volunteers, and other stakeholders on the integration of MHPSS in their daily activities with vulnerable children, caregivers, and communities.

- The officer will assess the capacity-building needs of staff in various sectors, including child protection, education, health, and nutrition, and develop training plans to address these gaps.

3. Assessing MHPSS Needs:

Conduct regular assessments to identify the mental health and psychosocial needs of children, caregivers, teachers, and community members.
The results from these assessments will inform the development of appropriate prevention and response interventions tailored to the specific needs of the community.

4. Case Management and Counseling Services:

The MHPSS Officer will ensure that case management staff are incorporating MHPSS support into their work with children and caregivers.
The officer will provide tailored counseling services for children and caregivers who are suffering from mental health issues or are at risk of developing such problems.

5. Field Visits and Direct Support:

Conduct regular visits to field sites where MHPSS services are being delivered, providing on-the-ground support and conducting counseling sessions for children, caregivers, and other stakeholders in need of support.
The officer will ensure that MHPSS services are being implemented effectively and that any challenges are addressed promptly.

6. Data Collection and Reporting:

The officer will compile weekly and periodic reports documenting the cases supported by MHPSS services.
Ensure that the data collected is accurate and that regular reports are provided as required.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation:

Monitor the effectiveness of MHPSS interventions and recommend improvements as needed.
Work with other program teams to assess the impact of MHPSS services and ensure that program goals are being met.

Qualifications and Experience

Educational Requirements:

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in Psychology, Psychiatric Nursing, or any other related course in counseling or mental health is required.

-Work Experience:

- At least two years of professional experience in implementing MHPSS programs or mental health support services.

- Experience working in community-based MHPSS approaches, particularly in conflict-affected or vulnerable settings, is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies:

Proven capacity to train, supervise, and mentor staff on MHPSS principles and practices.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people, including children, caregivers, community members, and fellow professionals.
Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks, and prioritize responsibilities effectively.
Computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Fluency in both written and spoken English is required.

-Other Qualities:

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Compassionate and empathetic, with a genuine interest in supporting vulnerable children and families.
Ability to work in a team-oriented environment and collaborate effectively with other sectors.

Application Process

Interested candidates who meet the qualifications and experience outlined above and are confident in their ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the role are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted using the provided application form on the CASFOD recruitment portal.

The closing date for applications is January 26, 2025. Applications will not be accepted via email or in person at the CASFOD office. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment and interviews.

CASFOD is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization is committed to maintaining high standards of ethics, and applicants will be required to undergo background and reference checks as part of the hiring process.

Additional Information

As part of CASFOD's commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals, applicants will be required to self-declare any past issues of misconduct, including sexual misconduct, termination of past employment, criminal records, or concerns raised by authorities regarding past contacts with children. This information will be verified during the reference check process, and applicants must consent to the disclosure of such information from their previous employers.

By joining CASFOD, you will be part of an organization dedicated to making a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families, supporting the humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts in Nigeria. CASFOD’s work is rooted in a deep commitment to fostering resilience, empowering communities, and improving the mental and emotional well-being of individuals affected by crisis. The MHPSS Officer role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to these essential efforts and support the development of sustainable mental health and psychosocial support systems in the region.