First Responder – Kwazulu-Natal needed at NACOSA

Job Description
The duties and responsibilities of the First Responder will include, but not limited to: 

Programme Implementation

• Provide services such as trauma containment / acute psychological first aid, adherence support, and psychosocial support to all survivors of violenceand raise awareness within the facility
• Ensure safe and confidential crisis interventions are maintained for survivors of sexual violence.
• Provide sufficient information on Post Violence Care services to survivors.
• Provide treatment literacy for sexual and reproductive health services and link to appropriate care
• Be present, at the survivor’s request, during the taking of the survivor’s statement by the police, as well as during forensic examination.
• Maintain filing record of notes and reports that are addressed to the supervising social worker.
• Support administrative tasks as required by the facility and Department of Health.
• Sensitise facility staff as well as other stakeholders supporting the PVC sites.
• Support the development of Care Plan & Safety plans and actioning of required referrals
• Provide longer term support and ongoing counselling and manage follow-ups and adherence activities through telephonic follow-up and/or home- or facility- visits
• Introduce survivors to the Primary Prevention package of services
• Deliver community awareness raising about gender-based violence through health talks, awareness programmes, community dialogues, workshops or educational sessions in collaboration with GBV Ambassador and other service providers
• Ensure that challenges are clearly communicated to the organisational management team in a timely and professional manner
• Develop and maintain relationships with DREAMS partners, Government departments and NGOs in the district
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of records and follow-up on the Survivor logbook.

Requirements

Required qualifications, skills, and experience.

• Diploma in Social Auxiliary Work
• Professional registration with the South African Council of Social Services
• 3 years work experience in Social Auxiliary work and case management
• Experience in emergency preparedness and contingency planning, case management and support
• 3 years’ experience in Gender-based Violence or Youth specific programmatic areas
• Must have the ability to coordinate and plan implementation
• Knowledge about: Sexual and reproductive health; Gender Based Violence, HIV Testing Services
• Previous working experience in an NGO/NPO field will be advantageous
• Good Microsoft Office Suite skills (Excel, Word and PowerPoint, E-mails, Outlook)
• Be fully conversant in spoken and written English and 1 other South African language
• Valid driver’s license and own vehicle will be advantageous

Personal Competencies

• Show empathy and sensitive to survivors’ experiences
• Must have the ability to handle high-stress and sensitive situations
• Ability to network and work closely with other professionals, stakeholders and communities.
• Sensitivity to cultural norms and practices