Consultant for Conducting an Analysis of Trends in the Alternative Care System for Children
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of every child's rights not just as a job, but as a calling.
Job Purpose
The consultant will provide crucial technical support to the Ministry of Family Care and Demography and the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs in the Republic of Serbia. The primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of trends within the alternative care system for children deprived of parental care. This involves identifying current trends, assessing the needs and challenges associated with various forms of alternative care, such as foster care, kinship care, and residential care. Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the outcomes for children in these systems, the quality and effectiveness of permanency planning, and the factors contributing to children remaining in alternative care for extended periods. The ultimate goal is to generate evidence-based recommendations to enhance the alternative care system and improve outcomes for children.
Responsibilities
Provide technical support to the Ministry of Family Care and Demography and the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs in conducting a comprehensive analysis of trends in the alternative care system for children deprived of parental care in the Republic of Serbia. Identify trends, needs, and current challenges in the use of different forms of alternative care, including various types of foster care, kinship care, and residential care. Assess outcomes for children placed in alternative care settings. Evaluate the quality and effectiveness of permanency planning processes for children. Analyze factors contributing to children's prolonged stays in alternative care. Develop evidence-based recommendations for improving the alternative care system and enhancing outcomes for children. Prepare and present a comprehensive analytical report detailing findings and recommendations. Coordinate with relevant national stakeholders, including government ministries, centers for social work, family-based care and adoption centers, and residential care institutions. Ensure adherence to international standards and best practices in child protection and alternative care throughout the analysis. Facilitate discussions and consultations with stakeholders to gather necessary data and insights. Contribute to the development of policy and practice improvements based on the analysis findings.
Work Experience
At least 10 years of professional experience in child protection and alternative care, including research and analysis of child protection systems. Demonstrated experience working with and coordinating among ministries, centers for social work, family-based care and adoption centers, and residential care institutions.
Skills
Expertise in national alternative care systems, Knowledge of international standards in child rights and alternative care, Advanced analytical skills, Advanced research skills, Advanced writing skills, Experience in preparing reports and publications, Experience in analyzing sectoral data, Ability to interpret complex data, Skill in formulating actionable recommendations, Experience in deinstitutionalization, Experience in family strengthening, Experience with UNICEF or other international organizations