IYCF Counsellor

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on providing essential health services and support to vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of maternal and child health. It aims to improve the well-being of mothers and children through targeted interventions and community engagement. The organization operates in various countries, addressing health challenges and ensuring access to quality healthcare services. It has a strong commitment to safeguarding policies and ethical conduct in all its operations.

Job Overview:
The IYCF Counsellor position is designed to provide specialized support and counseling to pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as caregivers facing challenges related to Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF). The role is crucial in ensuring that both displaced and non-displaced populations have access to high-quality breastfeeding and IYCF services. The Counsellor will work primarily in Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCCs) and host communities, conducting individualized counseling sessions and facilitating group awareness activities in line with national IYCF standard operating procedures (SOPs). This position is contingent upon donor funding confirmation, with an anticipated start date in November or December 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The IYCF Counsellor will be responsible for providing one-on-one counseling to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and caregivers in various settings, including collective shelters and PHCCs. Regular monitoring of the RIMS account to review and accept cases referred by the IYCF national hotline or other organizations is essential. The Counsellor will conduct follow-up visits or phone calls with assisted women, particularly mothers of infants under six months, to promote exclusive breastfeeding. Additionally, the role includes facilitating awareness sessions in shelters and communities on IYCF, collaborating with PHC’s Gynecologists, midwives, and community health volunteers to identify women in need of support, and distributing nutritional supplies in accordance with sector guidelines. The Counsellor will also be involved in capacity building for PHCC staff and program teams on IYCF, breastfeeding, newborn care, and antenatal and postnatal care as needed. Reporting on daily activities using relevant databases and responding to emerging reporting requirements from the nutrition and sexual and reproductive health sectors are also key responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in midwifery (preferred), nursing, or a related field. Completion of a 20-hour training on Infant and Young Child Feeding is mandatory. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of experience as an IYCF Counsellor, demonstrating knowledge of local cultural attitudes and behaviors towards maternal and child health. Strong communication skills, teamwork capacity, and a high level of cultural sensitivity are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in midwifery, nursing, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of maternal and child health and providing effective counseling and support to the target population. The completion of a specialized training program on Infant and Young Child Feeding is also a mandatory requirement, ensuring that the Counsellor is well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant experience as an IYCF Counsellor. This experience should include direct engagement with pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as caregivers, in providing support and counseling related to IYCF challenges. Familiarity with local cultural practices and attitudes towards maternal and child health is also essential, as it enables the Counsellor to tailor their approach to meet the specific needs of the community they serve.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in Arabic is likely essential given the location in Lebanon. Knowledge of English may also be beneficial for reporting and communication purposes, particularly in collaboration with international organizations and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent upon confirmation of donor funding, and the anticipated start date is November/December 202

• The role requires a high level of independence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. The Counsellor must demonstrate professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to the values outlined in the organization’s code of conduct and safeguarding policies. The position may involve both full-time and part-time responsibilities, depending on the needs of the organization and the community.