MHPSS Assistant, Temporary Accommodation Centre At International Organization for Migration

Context:

As part of its support to the Government of Belgium, IOM assists with the establishment and management of accommodation centres for persons seeking international protection in Belgium. This support spans from the establishment of accommodation centres where needed to the day-to-day operations of the centre.

Core Functions / Responsibilities:

Under the direct supervision of the Medical Assistant, the MHPSS Assistant for Accommodation Centres will be, inter-alia, responsible for:

1. Support the Social Workers in conducting vulnerability assessments of migrants residing in the facilities, address protection needs and refer to competent agencies for specialized protection services;
2. Carry out tours around the Centre to check general environment among beneficiaries;
3. Ensure the update of database;
4. Carry out group activities, if possible, to ensure mental health support and psychosocial support of beneficiaries;
5. Schedule individual appointments for specific cases that need psychosocial support;
6. Ensure a safe and welcoming environment in the Accommodation Centre;
7. Follow up on individual appointments regarding MHPSS;
8. Coordinate with the reception and movements team, in case cultural mediation is needed as well as interpretation or translation to facilitate communication with beneficiaries;
9. Understanding and reporting to line manager specific protection needs of people residing in the facilities;
10. Focusing on needs of vulnerable groups and refer cases for further treatment. Follow up on protection cases and ensure quality case management;
11. Committing to maintaining a comprehensive and updated case file for each case undertaken. Inform and keep beneficiaries updated for the progress of their cases;
12. Ensuring confidentiality when handling personal information and data of migrants complying with IOM Data Principles;
13. Actively participating and promoting weekly meetings with case management actors to discuss case management and collect feedback about existing risks, challenges and gaps in service provision for protection cases;
14. Organize MHPSS trainings to IOM staff;
15. Performing any other duties as may be assigned.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

• High School Degree/Certificate with four (4) years of related work experience;

OR

• University degree in Psychology and/or Social Work preferable a bachelor’s degree or higher level from an accredited institution with two (2) years of related work experience.

Experience and skills

• At least 2 years of related experience;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills in a multi-cultural setting;
• Demonstrated ability to draft and prepare clear and concise formal correspondence and project reports;
• Strong organizational, facilitation, communication, writing and presentations skills;
• Proficient in a Microsoft Office environment and office software packages. Knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web-based management systems;
• Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure and keep deadlines;
• Strong work ethics and commitment to humanitarian principles.

Languages

Fluency in English and French/Dutch (oral and written). Working knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.