MHPSS Associate at HIAS Refugee Trust of Kenya

Job Description

HIAS is the global Jewish nonprofit organization that protects refugees—including women and children, and ethnic, religious, and sexual minorities—whose lives are in danger for being who they are.

Position Summary

HIAS Kenya is seeking to recruit an MHPSS Associate who will be responsible for the direct provision of 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 responsibilities will also 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 Sub Office Coordinator

Essential Functions

In close coordination with the MHPSS Officers, establish standard operating procedures for the provision of MHPSS support to refugees and asylum seekers. In close coordination with the MHPSS Officers, 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, Conduct awareness about mental health and psychosocial services through evidence-based psychoeducation and skill building activities to HIAS and implementing partners. 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 Officers, 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 Officers, 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 ensuring appropriate training is provided for frontline HIAS and implementing partners’ staff. Promote 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 Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Community Development, Development Studies, 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 required. Responsible, Professional and with Integrity Ability to work with people from different culture settings. Ability to work effectively with teams. Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills. Strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office Ability to maintain one’s composure while under pressure. Knowledge of Accountability to Affected Population. Knowledge of PSEA and Anti-Fraud.