MHPSS/PSEA Assistant at Global Village Healthcare Initiative for Africa (GHIV Africa)

Job Purpose: 

The MHPSS/PSEA Assistant will support the implementation of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) activities at community and facility levels. The role focuses on providing basic psychosocial support, raising awareness on PSEA, strengthening community-based protection mechanisms, and ensuring safe, confidential, and survivor-cantered approaches in all interventions.

Key Responsibilities

MHPSS Program Support

• Provide basic psychosocial support (PSS) to individuals and groups in line with MHPSS IASC standard guidelines
• Facilitate structured group sessions e.g., peer support groups, psychoeducation, stress management
• Support identification and referral of persons with mental health conditions to appropriate services
• Assist in organizing community sensitization and awareness activities on mental health and wellbeing
• Maintain accurate and confidential case documentation and activity records

PSEA Mainstreaming and Awareness

• Support the implementation of PSEA awareness campaigns in communities and project sites
• Sensitize beneficiaries on their rights, expected staff behaviour, and reporting mechanisms
• Promote safe and accessible feedback and complaint mechanisms (FCRM)
• Assist in ensuring that all activities are conducted in line with PSEA principles and safeguarding standards

Community Engagement

• Work closely with community leaders, volunteers, and stakeholders to strengthen trust and participation
• Support establishment and follow-up of community-based support groups
• Ensure inclusive participation of women, men, youth, and vulnerable groups

Referrals and Coordination

• Identify and refer protection and mental health cases using established referral pathways
• Coordinate with health facilities, protection actors, and service providers
• Support follow-up on referred cases while maintaining confidentiality

Data Collection and Reporting

• Collect and compile activity data, beneficiary information, and reports
• Support preparation of weekly and monthly activity reports
• Ensure data protection and confidentiality at all times

Safeguarding and Ethics

• Uphold confidentiality, dignity, and respect in all interactions
• Adhere strictly to PSEA, child protection, and safeguarding policies
• Report any safeguarding concerns through appropriate channels

Required Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Mental Health, psychology Sociology, or related field
• At least 1–2 years’ experience in MHPSS, protection, or community-based programs
• Experience working in humanitarian or conflict settings is an added advantage

Required Skills and Competencies

• Basic knowledge of MHPSS and PSEA principles
• Strong communication and facilitation skills
• Ability to handle sensitive issues with confidentiality and empathy
• Good report writing and documentation skills
• Ability to work with diverse communities and vulnerable populations
• Fluency in English and local languages (e.g., Hausa/Kanuri)

Key Working Relationships

• Internal: MHPSS Team, Protection Team and MEAL Team
• External: Community leaders, health workers, NGOs, government partners

Essential Skills

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, internal controls, and financial policies. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook). 
• Experience with electronic financial management systems and data collection tools. 
• Strong organizational, analytical, and reporting skills. 
• Ability to work independently and in multi-disciplinary teams. 
• Fluency in English; knowledge of relevant local languages is an advantage. 

 Desirable

• Previous experience working in the BAY states (Borno, Adamawa, Yobe). 
• Familiarity with NGO or donor financial reporting requirements (ECHO, NHF, etc.).
• Training in Psychological First Aid (PFA)
• Experience in peer support group facilitation
• Familiarity with referral pathways and protection services
• Females are encouraged to apply.