MHPSS Associate at HIAS Refugee Trust of Kenya

POSITION SUMMARY:

The MHPSS Associate will be responsible for directly providing MHPSS services to refugees and asylum seekers in a timely and efficient manner. This position will also facilitate MHPSS capacity-building activities for HIAS staff and key stakeholders. The MHPSS associate’s key responsibilities will include conducting individual assessments, engaging in case management, and ensuring that individuals receive the proper level of care. The MHPSS associate will be expected to track the impact of the assistance provided to all clients and will work under the supervision of a Field Office Coordinator.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• In close coordination with the MHPSS Program Manager, establish standard operating procedures for the provision of MHPSS support to refugees and asylum seekers.
• In close coordination with the MHPSS Program Manager, develop a brief assessment to identify emergency and vulnerable psychosocial needs.
• Provide culturally sensitive MHPSS support (both individual and group) to refugees and IDPs experiencing elevated distress, including children and youth, caregivers, and other vulnerable individuals,
• Provide culturally sensitive Psychosocial Support services
• Conduct awareness about mental health and psychosocial services through evidenced-based psychoeducation and skills-building activities for HIAS and implementing partner.
• Support the community self-help groups and maintain networks with existing community structures and other partners for referral and networking purposes.
• In coordination with the MHPSS Program Manager, develop linkages with other service providers to promote quality referral pathways; establish appropriate referral mechanisms and ensure appropriate follow-up is provided for vulnerable individuals.
• In coordination with the MHPSS Program Manager, provide crisis assessment, intervention and support to HIAS and implementing partners.
• Ensure compliance with case management and reporting requirements, including data protection and safeguarding principles.
• Support in identifying training needs and ensure appropriate training provided for frontline HIAS and implementing partners’ staff.
• Promoting mental health and psychosocial support within affected communities through using appropriate technical tools, training, leaflets, guidelines, and other relevant materials.
• Assess, identify and analyze community sensitive intervention geared towards building resilience and self-reliance.
• Provide periodic reports on MHPSS services and clients’ progress.
• Provide input for the review of current program services and explore ways to introduce new service interventions.
• Other duties, as required.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

• A degree in psychology, sociology, social work, community development, anthropology, or a related subject
• Minimum of 1-2 years working in MHPSS programming; preference for candidates who have previous experience with direct service provision to vulnerable refugee and migrant populations in emergency setting.
• Demonstrated experience with operationalizing MHPSS Global standards and principles, including knowledge of IASC and other international humanitarian standards for MHPSS programming.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and respect for clients.
• Experience in capacity building including facilitation of diversity and inclusion, community-based training and awareness raising.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Responsible, Professional and with Integrity.
• Ability to work with people from different cultural settings.
• Ability to work effectively with teams.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
• Strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office
• Knowledge of Accountability to Affected Population.
• Knowledge in PSEA and Anti-Fraud.