Psychosocial Support (PSS) Officer

Danish Refugee Council,one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, is present in Ukraine since 2014 and currently responding to the evolving humanitarian crisis - providing support in the various sectors including Protection, Economic Recovery, Humanitarian Disarmament & Peacebuilding, Shelter & Settlements and others.

DRC is looking for Psychosocial Support (PSS) Officer to join our team in Chernihiv.

Overall purpose of the role:
• Ensure the quality of the planning, implementation and follow up of all technical aspects of the sector activities being implemented by DRC
• Develop and maintain good relations with the persons of concern, relevant stakeholders and other humanitarian actors, to support adequate implementation and coordination of DRC’s sector activities.

PSS activities Level 2;  facilitation access to services through the referral system to the beneficiaries; sexual and gender-based violence prevention, awareness-raising;

Geographic scope: Chernihiv
This role has an area focus and ensures compliance to DRC procedures and guidelines within the area. The role contributes to the development of area strategies, which are translated into action plans and day-to-day tasks. The role provides support and/or technical guidance to base operations.
                            
Main responsibilities:
Programming & Operations

• Plan and conducting group sessions on psychosocial first aid (PFA).
• Plan and facilitate and provide culturally and age appropriate PSS activities and positive coping mechanisms activities
• Awareness-raising sessions regarding the availability of mental health, psychosocial support, and protection services.
• Identify and refer cases for more specialized case management services.
• Plan and participate in capacity building trainings as needed and required.
• Support the supervisor in compiling regular reports to provide information on activities conducted and topics discussed
• Maintain effective working relationships with all relevant stakeholders including other NGOs, civil society groups, authorities, etc.
• Develop/contribute to developing and continuously updating a service mapping system detailing available services and assistance in our areas of operation and ensuring follow-up of referrals in a timely manner.
• Support protection teams efficiently and confidentially referring cases.
• Ensure that materials and facilities are fully functioning and ready to provide activities (logistically, capacity).

Any other duties as may be assigned by the Protection manager, relevant to the achievement of protection objectives

Logistics/Finance

• Support the monitoring of financial commitments and expenditures against budgets and provide timely feedback on budget follow-up
• Plan and coordinate proactively logistics and movements of staff from and to different operational areas
• Initiate procurements and ensure their execution
• Ensure distribution plans are prepared and shared with logistics in a timely manner                     

Required experience and competencies:

• Degree in psychology with a minimum of 2 years of post-licensure experience 
• Strong understanding of protection issues including child protection and gender-based violence
• Ability to discuss sensitive issues with respect and empathy including ability to provide basic Psychological First Aid services
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
• Knowledge of global MHPSS guidelines 
• Strong sense of personal integrity and understanding of confidentiality and ethics
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Outlook/Exchange, Windows operating systems
• Advanced English proficiency
• Fluency in local language 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and prioritize the safety and dignity of beneficiaries at all times.
• Commitment to learning and implementing organizational policies and procedures

All DRC roles require the post-holder to master DRC’s core competencies: 
• Striving for excellence: Focusing on reaching results while ensuring efficient processes. 
• Collaborating: Involving relevant parties and encouraging feedback. 
• Taking the lead: Taking ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation. 
• Communicating: Listening and speaking effectively and honestly. 
• Demonstrating integrity: Upholding and promoting the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to DRC’s values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment. 
                            
Required education:
University degree in psychology

We offer:
Contract length: 5 months renewable depending on performance and funding in case of successfull 3-month probation period
Level: H non-manager
Designation of Duty Station: Chernihiv
Start date: As soon as possible.
Salary and conditions will be in accordance with Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for national staff.

Application process
All applicants must upload a cover letter and an updated CV (no longer than four pages in English. Applications sent by email will not be considered.

Closing date for applications: 01th February 2023