Child Protection Officer at SOS Children Villages

Position Summary

• The Child Protection Officer would be responsible for implementing community-based child protection activities in an SOS Children’s Villages Programme Location.
• This position will be responsible for the prevention and response activities of the child protection program
• He/she will work with the community and community-based child protection structures and system, psychosocial support activities, case management and promote children’s wellbeing
• The officer will be responsible for ensuring the protection of children from harm or abuse.
• He/she will contribute to creating a safer and protective school environment for children using the four main key elements of protection which are;
• Prevention (e.g. positive, supportive, safe school culture, curriculum and pastoral opportunities for children);
• Protection (by following the agreed procedures, ensuring all staff are trained and supported to respond appropriately and sensitively to safeguarding concerns);
• Support (for all pupils, parents and staff, and where appropriate specific intervention for those who may be at risk of harm);
• Working with parents and other agencies (to ensure appropriate communications and actions are undertaken).
• Uphold the SOS Children’s Villages Child Safeguarding Policy and ensure the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse in the workplace and communities of intervention.
• Identify gaps in service provision to children and proactively document, refer and advocate for those gaps to be filled to relevant authorities
• He/she will closely work with the child protection stakeholders to ensure that they are addressing child protection concerns within their respective communities.

Qualifications, Experience and Skills

• HND / BSc Degree in social sciences or humanities (human rights, sociology, psychology or any related field)
• Minimum of 2 years proven professional experience in Safeguarding, Development or Humanitarian Work
• Understanding of child development issues, including knowledge of child rights, child protection, child welfare, childcare and parenting; and relevant local and national laws, regulations and protocols
• Ability to manage sensitive information and be confidential and discrete.