The caseworker is responsible for the overall case management of a child in line with international standards of case management and acts according to the guiding principles of Child Protection case management including: child-centred approach, respect of confidentiality, prioritize according to safety concerns, ‘do not harm’, ensure a non-discriminatory approach, act according to the best interest of the child, ensure accountability, respect professional boundaries and avoid conflict of interest; ensures child participation.
S/he ensures that protection principles are understood, maintained and enforced.
S/he organizes and carries out work to address an individual (and their family’s) needs in an appropriate, systematic and timely matter through direct support and / or referrals.
Position reports to: Case Management and Psychotherapy Manager
Position in the organisation:
The caseworker is part of the Program Management Department and reports to the Program Manager.
S/he does not manage staff.
S/he collaborates closely with caregivers, educators, other caseworkers, psychotherapists and service providers.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct initial assessments for child protection cases;
- Assess and prioritizes cases according to risk level;
- Based on the needs identified through the assessment, develop a case management plan, through child participation and according to the best interest of the child such that cases are closed within a set time frame;
- Identify, refer and follow up on all services and ensure action points are carried out within the agreed timeframe;
- Regularly review and, when needed, adjust action plan to ensure progress;
- Manage cases in line with the national practical guidelines and Standard Operational Procedures (SOPs);
- Document cases using case notes and regularly update the database to ensure comprehensive record of each case;
- Ensure data collection and storage is done in a manner that maintains Child Protection policy and Data Protection Protocol of Home of Hope;
- Monitor, guide, advise and support children and caregivers throughout the duration of the stay of the children;
- Ensure that children receive multidisciplinary and holistic support;
- Participate in relevant meetings as the need arises;
- Provide weekly updates on cases to the Program Manager;
- Provide mapping of the available services and organizations operating in the area;
- Ensure coordination and synergy with the main service providers in the area of intervention for prompt referral, follow up and information sharing;
- Facilitate awareness sessions for groups (awareness sessions for children, guidance to caregivers and educators);
- Ensure proper filing and information keeping (storing files of past residents, scanning and storing documents in electronic form, backing up electronic files;
- Formulate monthly reports on the follow up with UPEL and MoSA, referrals, child protection/child safety incidents and concerns, awareness sessions and group intervention;
- Formulate accurate quarterly bills to be submitted to MoSA;
- Conduct home visits;
- Monitor progress of each child;
- Develop and maintain effective working relationship with relevant stakeholders including INGOs and local agencies, community leaders and service providers in areas of implementation;
- Ensure child protection concerns identified by staff members are raised and addressed;
- Participate in the child protection working group on a monthly basis;
- Share relevant information regarding child protection needs/gaps with Program Manager;
- Report any violation of the Child Safety policy to the Program Manager and Home of hope Director;
- Perform any other duties relating to the nature of the job as directed by the Program Manager.
Knowledge and Experience
Accredited social work degree or other social science degree;
Minimum 2 years of experience in case management in Lebanon;
Good understanding of the local context and social welfare and legal system for child protection services in Lebanon;
Previous experience working with children/refugees/vulnerable populations;
Proven experience engaging with different target groups from all backgrounds (children, families, local and international organization, government, etc.).
Skills and Competencies
Ability to maintain confidentiality, respect, non-discrimination and safety of children at all times;
Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills
Flexibility in working overtime when needed;
Computer literacy (Microsoft Word and Excel);
Strong communication skills;
Time management skills;
Excellent organizational skills;
Ability to take initiative;
Child-friendly approach;
Fluency in Arabic;
Strong English skills;
Cultural sensitivity;
Dynamic