Assistant Project Officer - Psychosocial Support

Responsibilities & Context

Summary of Project

RDRS Bangladesh, in partnership with Lutheran World Federation (LWF), Geneva has been implementing an emergency response programme titled “LWF-RDRS Emergency Programme (LREP)” in Rohingya camps and nearby host communities in Cox’s Bazar district since 2019. The LREP contributes to international efforts to meet the humanitarian and protection needs and increase self-reliance and resilience of the Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMNs) and host communities through Income Generating Activities (IGAs), tree plantation, life-skills with livelihoods and leadership development training. LREP also works on capacity building of youth and creates market linkage to improve their living standard. This programme also aims at cultivating social cohesion, ensuring social inclusion, promoting reforestation and providing humanitarian support (i.e., foods and non-food items, WASH, health, protection, etc.) to the FDMNs as well as the nearby host communities.

Summary of Position

Under the overall responsibility and control of the Team Leader (LREP), The Assistant Project Officer -Psychosocial Support (PSS) will be responsible for the implementation of psychosocial support activities within the Rohingya refugee camps and host communities. This role requires an understanding of the specific psychosocial needs of the population, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and youth. The Assistant Project Officer will work closely with community leaders, volunteers, and other stakeholders to contribute to the mental well-being and resilience of the community.

Description of Responsibilities

The major responsibilities of this position are as follows:

She/he will -

Provide psychosocial support through addressing the unique needs of the camps and host communities.

Assist in implementing activities that promote mental health, resilience, and community well-being

Facilitate community engagement sessions to raise awareness about psychosocial well-being and the importance of mental health

Work closely with community leaders and volunteers to ensure active participation in psychosocial support initiatives, aligning with the social cohesion approach.

Assist in organizing and conducting individual and group counselling sessions

Collaborate with mental health professionals and organizations to enhance the quality and effectiveness of counselling services.

Conduct training sessions for community leaders, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Collect and analyze data to measure the impact of interventions, contributing to regular reports for the overall project.

Prepare reports, case studies and relevant documents.

Assist in protection situation assessment to identify risks, vulnerabilities, and gaps.

Conduct capacity-building activities, project staff and community people.

Represent RDRS in coordination meetings with stakeholders.

Ensure effective communication and coordination with external partners to enhance the synergy of efforts in the field.

Any other responsibilities assigned by the Team Leader.