National Consultant for Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) Package

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children Vanuatu is a part of the global Save the Children organization, which is dedicated to improving the lives of children and ensuring their rights are upheld. The organization focuses on various issues including health, education, and protection for children in need. Established in 1919, Save the Children operates in over 100 countries, employing thousands of staff and working with numerous partners to deliver impactful programs. The mission of Save the Children is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant or consultant team is crucial for the Helti Pikinini, Helti Vanuatu (HPHV) project, which is funded by the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). The project aims to tackle undernutrition and WASH-related health issues among children under five years old in Vanuatu. The consultant will lead formative research and design a comprehensive Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) package that will be implemented across 20 communities in the Shefa and Sanma Provinces. The consultant's work will focus on community-based rehabilitation of malnourished children, improving hygiene and sanitation, enhancing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and developing a sustainable SBCC strategy that fosters positive behavior change among caregivers and communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant or consultant team will be responsible for conducting formative research using the Barrier Analysis methodology to identify barriers and enablers to key behaviors related to nutrition and health. They will develop an SBCC strategy brief that includes clear messaging, audience identification, and delivery modes. Additionally, the consultant will review and design Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials such as flipcharts, posters, and innovative nutrition tools, ensuring that these materials are culturally relevant and inclusive through user testing. The consultant will also be required to submit an inception report, ethics submission, Barrier Analysis study report, SBCC strategy brief, and a final print-ready IEC package as deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proven experience in behavior change research, development of SBCC strategies, and design of IEC materials. A strong background in nutrition, WASH, or health, particularly in Pacific contexts, is essential. The ability to conduct inclusive and ethical studies involving caregivers and vulnerable groups is a must. Excellent communication skills are required to effectively translate technical findings into practical tools that can be utilized by the target communities.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in public health, nutrition, social sciences, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in behavior change communication or community health will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in conducting formative research and developing behavior change communication strategies, ideally with a focus on health and nutrition in developing countries. Experience working in Vanuatu or similar Pacific Island nations will be highly regarded, as will experience in community engagement and participatory research methods.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Bislama or other local languages would be advantageous and is considered a plus for engaging with local communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to run from February to May 2026, with a clear timeline for deliverables outlined in the project plan. This position is open to national consultants or teams, and candidates are encouraged to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOIs) by the deadline of 16 January 202

• The consultancy will be compensated in Australian Dollars (AUD), and candidates should include a financial proposal as part of their application.