Child Protection Specialist
Organizational Context
UNICEF is dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of every child globally, with a focus on the most vulnerable. In Ukraine, particularly in Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kherson oblasts, the ongoing war has strained host communities' capacity to provide essential social services. This has led to increased risks for internally displaced persons, conflict-affected children, and vulnerable families, including family separation and institutionalization. Local authorities and service providers face significant challenges with limited resources and coordination.
Job Purpose
This assignment aims to bolster UNICEF's Child Protection Programme, specifically the Better Care Flagship Program, in the Odesa Field Office. The UNV will contribute to strengthening and streamlining integrated social services and family-based alternative care systems across Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kherson oblasts. Key contributions include enhancing coordination mechanisms, reinforcing community-based child protection and gatekeeping systems, improving family support services, and supporting the implementation of the Better Care agenda in alignment with national strategies for child welfare. The role is crucial for preventing unnecessary institutionalization and promoting safe family reunification.
Responsibilities
The UNV will support the establishment and operation of regional and local Better Care task forces and coordination platforms, ensuring effective documentation and follow-up. A key responsibility is promoting the meaningful engagement of People with Lived Experience, children, and caregivers in program planning and implementation. The role involves conducting situational analyses, service mapping, and workforce assessments to identify gaps and opportunities. The UNV will also support monitoring and reporting, the development and quality assurance of integrated social services and family-based care interventions, and capacity-building for social service providers. Additionally, the UNV will assist in institutionalizing professional development mechanisms for the social service workforce, support resource mobilization for Better Care interventions, and facilitate knowledge management by documenting best practices and lessons learned for policy dissemination.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of professional experience in social protection or child protection at national or subnational levels is required. Desirable experience includes knowledge of the Ukrainian child protection and alternative care systems, experience in strengthening the social service workforce, developing national strategies, and building dialogue with government and civil society organizations.
Skills
Key competencies include professionalism, integrity, teamwork, respect for diversity, commitment to continuous learning, planning and organizing, communication, and flexibility. A genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement is essential. Expertise in administration, community development, and education is also relevant.