Mental Health Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) Office in the occupied Palestinian territory serves as the principal technical adviser to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Established to provide support in strengthening health services, addressing public health issues, and promoting health research, WHO plays a critical role in the humanitarian Health and Nutrition Cluster, coordinating assistance from various international and local partners to the health sector. The organization employs approximately 45 staff members across its offices in the West Bank and Gaza, including both international and local professionals with expertise in various health-related fields such as medicine and public health nursing. WHO collaborates with numerous partners, including United Nations agencies, donors, non-governmental organizations, universities, and the private sector, to assist the Palestinian Authority in achieving its national health development goals while ensuring coordinated efforts among all involved organizations.

Job Overview:
The Mental Health (MH) program aims to enhance Mental Health Services, ensuring that Mental Health Psycho-Social Support (MHPSS) emergency planning and response is effectively implemented and coordinated among partners. The program focuses on integrating mental health into health facilities, building the capacity of health professionals, and raising community awareness about mental health issues. The Mental Health Volunteer will work under the supervision of the Mental Health team lead at WHO's office in Jerusalem, supporting various MH programs and activities, documentation, reporting, and collaboration with health partners such as the Ministry of Health (MoH), UNRWA, and other stakeholders. This role is crucial in facilitating effective communication and engagement with the MoH in Gaza to enhance the planning and implementation of mental health activities, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of mental health services in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mental Health Volunteer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting effective communication and engagement with the Ministry of Health in Gaza to enhance the planning and implementation of mental health activities.
• Proposing draft designs for ad hoc surveys and assessments, assisting in their implementation to generate evidence on health needs and emerging challenges.
• Monitoring the implementation of WHO's mental health activities and programs, preparing reports on progress, potential delays, and challenges.
• Assisting the mental health officer and coordinator in Gaza to gather, compile, and consolidate health and mental health response data from partners and focal points, utilizing agreed templates and reporting schedules.
• Monitoring the availability of psychotropic medications through the WHO Operations and Supply dashboard, following up with relevant partners on medication needs, and ensuring timely submission of requests for necessary drugs along with distribution plans.
• Overseeing partner reporting processes by delivering orientations, reminders, and follow-ups to facilitate completeness and timeliness.
• Performing reporting activities and tasks for donors, EMRO, and HQ in support of the Mental Health Team Lead. Additionally, the volunteer is encouraged to integrate the UN Volunteers program mandate within their assignment and promote voluntary action through community engagement during their work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Mental Health Volunteer position should possess a strong understanding of mental health issues and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders. They should demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. The ideal candidate will have a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Familiarity with the health sector in the Palestinian context is highly desirable, along with experience in project management and coordination.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background in psychology, social work, public health, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of mental health principles and practices, as well as knowledge of the local health system and cultural context. Advanced degrees or specialized training in mental health or psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in mental health services, community health, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or governmental health agencies is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successful project implementation and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the health sector.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and the need for effective communication with health partners and the community. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This assignment is designated as a remote national UN Volunteer position, meaning that the volunteer is responsible for securing and maintaining appropriate housing and covering all related living arrangements and expenses. The initial contract duration is six months, with potential extensions subject to funding availability, operational requirements, and satisfactory performance. A monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) will be provided to assist with housing, utilities, and standard living expenses. Additionally, the UN Volunteer will receive life, health, and permanent disability insurance coverage, including health insurance for up to three eligible dependents, as well as an exit allowance contingent upon satisfactory completion of service.