IYCF Counsellor (1 position)

SRCS is currently seeking a qualified IYCF Counsellor (1 position) to join their team in Baidoa. Candidates should bring 2 - 3 years of hands-on experience, preferably in the Health/wash sector. Applications are open until May, 09. Don't miss this opportunity. Job Grade: Band 3 Department: Nutrition Location Baidoa Reports To: Functionally Head Nurse Direct Reports: Technically TSFP Nurse Overall, Job Purpose: The role of the IYCF counsellor is to provide technical assistance in infant and young child feeding (IYCF) awareness and ensure appropriate and consistent IYCF messages to mothers and other caretakers at nutrition services sites. Essential Duties & Responsibilities • To lead group education sessions for mothers and caretakers of children under 2 years old. • To provide skilled 1:1 (one-to-one counselling) breastfeeding counselling for mothers experiencing difficulties in breastfeeding; including supporting the re-lactation. • Facilitate and conduct father support and mother support group. • Assess mothers and their children to identify specific feeding support needs. • Provide Pregnant women with preparatory counselling for breastfeeding and early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour (colostrum feeding), to ensure the prevention of pre-lacteal feeds and bottle feeding • Provide mothers with practical advice on correct attachment and positioning when breastfeeding, timely introduction of complementary foods and respond to any concerns or local taboos associated with IYCF • Advise mothers on the appropriate time to introduce complementary feeding, promote the continuation of Breastfeeding up to 2 years old. • Educating the mothers on the quality, quantity, and frequency of complementary feeds to promote adequate weight gain. • Discourage and educate mothers on the dangers of bottle feeding, and mixed feeding (by exchanging used bottles for cups and spoons, and breastfeeding before 6 months) • Counselling the mothers on good maternal nutrition during pregnancy and lactation. • Follow up with the mothers/caretakers who have already received one-to-one counselling and do home visits when required. • Closely === Skills & Qualifications === Minimum Requirements: Education • Bachelor in Nurse, Midwife, Public health, and nutrition Experience: • Minimum 2 years relevant experience in maternal and child health with significant experience in managing CMAM & IYCF programs Competencies: Knowledge of infant and young child feeding practices and a willingness to learn Capacity to keep accurate records of activities and report in a timely manner Ability to make a work plan and direct work independently Has own children/experience of breastfeeding Ability to work collaboratively and as part of the team nutrition team Excellent communication skills and a willingness to be respectful, kind, sensitive, and empathize with children and their careers Understanding of local language and culture is mandatory. --- About Baidoa --- Baidoa is the interim capital of the South West State of Somalia. The city is strategically important for humanitarian operations and has a significant presence of international and local organizations working on food security, health, and livelihood programs. It offers opportunities for professionals in the humanitarian and development sectors. Ereyada Soomaaliga (Somali Keywords): Shaqo Cusub • Caafimaad & Nadaafadda • Shaqo Buuxda • Caafimaad • Biyaha & Nadaafadda • Shaqo Baydhabo

Minimum Requirements: Education • Bachelor in Nurse, Midwife, Public health, and nutrition Experience: • Minimum 2 years relevant experience in maternal and child health with significant experience in managing CMAM & IYCF programs Competencies: Knowledge of infant and young child feeding practices and a willingness to learn Capacity to keep accurate records of activities and report in a timely manner Ability to make a work plan and direct work independently Has own children/experience of breastfeeding Ability to work collaboratively and as part of the team nutrition team Excellent communication skills and a willingness to be respectful, kind, sensitive, and empathize with children and their careers Understanding of local language and culture is mandatory.

Interested candidates should email their updated CV, cover letter, in one PDF, to [email protected] Note: applications which do not meet the above requirements will not be considered. Only Shortlisted Candidates will be contacted. Please write the position you are applying on the subject line. Apply on [email protected]