Child Protection Specialist (Social Workforce Strengthening)
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The Caribbean Multi-Country Office serves twelve English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean countries, focusing on equitable access to primary health care, learning and skills; protection of children from violence; and child poverty reduction and resilience strengthening.
Job Purpose
The Child Protection Specialist (Social Workforce Strengthening) will contribute to the achievement of the Caribbean Multi-Country Office's child protection programme objectives by strengthening the social workforce. This role is crucial for advancing results for children across the region, particularly in areas of violence prevention, child poverty reduction, and resilience building. The specialist will support the implementation of UNICEF's strategies to ensure children's rights are protected and their potential is fulfilled, addressing interconnected challenges like learning losses, mental health concerns, and climate-related disasters. The position aims to enhance the capacity of social service systems to respond effectively to the needs of vulnerable children and adolescents, promoting equitable access to essential services and fostering a protective environment.
Responsibilities
Contribute to the development and implementation of the child protection programme, with a focus on social workforce strengthening, in line with UNICEF's strategic priorities and the Caribbean Multi-Country Programme. Provide technical expertise and support to national governments and partners in strengthening social welfare systems and the capacity of the social workforce to deliver child protection services. Support the design and implementation of capacity-building initiatives, training programs, and policy advice related to child protection and social work. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, collect data, and report on progress towards programme goals. Identify challenges and opportunities in social workforce development and propose innovative solutions. Foster partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to enhance collaboration and coordination in child protection efforts. Contribute to resource mobilization and advocacy for child protection issues. Ensure that programming is gender-responsive, inclusive, and addresses the specific needs of vulnerable children and adolescents, including those in remote areas and small island developing states. Support the integration of child protection into broader development frameworks, such as health, education, and disaster risk reduction.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of professional experience in child protection, social welfare, or a related field, with a focus on social workforce strengthening. Experience working in a developing country context, preferably in the Caribbean region, is an asset. Experience in programme planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
Skills
Child Protection, Social Work, Social Welfare Systems, Capacity Building, Programme Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, Policy Analysis, Advocacy, Partnership Building, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Interpersonal Skills