Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Recruits Counsellor

The Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) is a gender justice project supported by Justice for All (J4A) Programme of the Department for International Development (DFID) to provide holistic and high quality medical and psychosocial services to survivors of sexual assault in Lagos State.

We are seeking experienced and dynamic individuals for the vacant position of:

Job Title: Counsellor

Specific Responsibilities

• Provide quality assessment, case management, counselling, referral and follow up services at all times to clients
• Provide initial crisis intervention counselling to clients as requested and needed. Provide support to the client during medical examinations and other procedures as requested.
• Work with the client to develop a plan for her next steps that is in line with her own choices, available options, and existing situation.
• Provide basic support and guidance to family members to help them provide ongoing support to the clients at home and during the recovery process, according to the situation.
• Provide support where feasible to clients requesting support for legal follow up.
• Conduct follow up with relevant service providers to which referrals were made.
• Help to monitor quality of service provision through regular feedback from clients and their families on services provided through feedback session, surveys, and other activities.

Qualifications, Experience, Skills

• A university degree in counselling, social sciences or related field.
• At least 3 years experience in the direct provision of counselling or psychosocial support services to clients of gender-based violence, or alternatively adults & children in similar circumstances.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to apply the principles of providing quality service delivery for clients of gender-based violence in various settings and circumstances.
• Experience engaging constructively with diverse groups of stakeholders at all levels in a participatory, inclusive manner to address issues that may be viewed as sensitive or controversial with respect to traditional socio-cultural beliefs and practices.
• Excellent listening and observation skills; ability to create a space of trust, support, respect, and confidentiality with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
• Ability to engage constructively with diverse groups and individuals at various levels, from community groups to government line ministries.
• Strong knowledge of gender-based violence issues in the Lagos context, the impacts of violence on clients, and best practices for providing support to clients.
• Able to work independently, multi-task, and take initiative, but also able to ask for help as needed.
• Strong communication skills and ability to engage with different groups and stakeholders in strengthening referral pathways and coordination, and raising awareness about GBV.
• Basic computer skills (word, excel, email, etc)

Application Closing Date
14th May, 2013

Method of Application
To apply, submit a letter of intent stating expected salary, with CV and copies of credentials attached in word document to:
SARCLAGOS2013@yahoo.com

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.