The Need
International Justice Mission (IJM) Kenya is working to bring relief to victims of child sexual assault, police abuse of power and false imprisonment. It seeks to hold to account perpetrators of these crimes; and aims to bring transformation to the public justice system as a whole.
IJM is seeking a qualified and energetic professional to participate in IJM’s casework. The Aftercare Specialist will provide psychosocial support to our clients during the investigation, adjudication and post-adjudication phases of our casework. We are looking for a motivated self-starter who is focused and result oriented with unique ability to adapt and respond effectively and efficiently to the changing needs of our clients. This position is based in Kenya and requires regular travel within and out of Nairobi and reports to the Director of Aftercare.
Responsibilities
Psychosocial Support and Leadership
- Complete needs assessments and accomplish aftercare successful outcome goals for all IJM clients;
- Develop a treatment plan that clearly articulates how client needs will be met including a reintegration plan to ensure self-sustainability;
- Participate in interviewing clients, including sexually abused children, to help the investigations team develop a comprehensive report;
- Evaluate emotional and psychological needs of police abuse clients and develop an intervention methodology;
- Facilitate medical care for clients as needs arise;
- Empower clients to take ownership and a leading role in the healing process e.g. by encouraging their active participation in the empowerment process;
- Coordinate counseling for IJM clients;
- Prepare clients together with their families before court hearings and provide psychosocial support during the court hearing;
- Provide on-going support and encouragement to clients and family during the court process and provide regular updates on the progress of their cases;
- Facilitate placement of aftercare clients into education and vocational training opportunities and work towards permanency goals that are in the best interest of children;
- Participate in casework monitoring and evaluation by periodical review of targets, case management best practices and departmental procedures;
- Participate in development and implementation of aftercare strategies that meet IJM’s goals;
- Provide leadership to the department during extended absences or vacancies by the Director of Aftercare including assisting in recruiting field office staff by reviewing CV’s and interviewing candidates;
- Participate in restoration of clients once the treatment plan has been completed; and
- Any other duty as may be assigned by the Director of Aftercare.
Training
- Participate in programs addressing spiritual formation and professional training;
- Provide community education and training on protection against sexual abuse and assault;
- Participate in the development of a training curriculum for Community Based Organizations, police officers and prosecutors;
- Participate in the training of police officers, prosecutors, the local community and any other interested persons on various psychosocial and court subject areas; and
- Provide training to partner organizations and IJM contract counselors.
Required Skills and Experience
- Degree in Social Work/Counseling Psychology or equivalent. Master’s degree in Social Work or related field is an added advantage;
- At least five years professional experience providing counseling or psychotherapy to victims of trauma and/or practicing as a social worker in a reputable organization;
- Proven experience in successful networking with service providers;
- Fluent in written and oral communication in English and Kiswahili;
- Excellent listening skills; and
- Excellent report writing skills.
Critical Qualities
- Mature orthodox Christian faith as defined by the Apostles’ Creed;
- Strong passion to help people suffering injustice and oppression;
- Disciplined with priorities and strong attention to detail;
- Extremely high level of honesty and integrity;
- Ability to work well under stress and deadline pressures; and
- Effective as a team player and leader.
IJM encourages male social workers to apply given its current gender balance and client needs.
