PATRICIA KAGENDO

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The Social Worker reports directly to the HOTGS Manager and is responsible for managing the successful transition of the children in Home of the Good Shepard to family-based care. ‘Best Practice’ case management to be maintained.

Work is undertaken per the Convention of the Rights of the Child and upholds fundamental principles including – The Best Interests of the Child, Doing no Harm and Children’s Participation. Professional and ethical practice, including confidentiality, is central to the role.

The Social Work Manager focuses on finding the right family and community for each child. The Social Worker Manager also manages key relationships with the government, schools, and GGFAN’s congregations and staff.

Main Responsibilities:

Finding the right family and community

1.  Per Case Plans, undertake Family Tracing, assess individual children’s family situation (using identified tools such as the Child Status Index) & identify appropriate long-term, stable, caring, family-based care for each child/sibling group.
2. Develop strategies to mobilize communities and key community stakeholders to support children and families rather than institutional care.
3. In support of the Social Worker, attend family visits and assessments. Contribute to developing each Child’s Case Plan.

Support the children’s education

1. Assess and follow up on children’s needs including liaising with schools on educational needs/progress.
2. Support children’s educational needs and attend school meetings where required.
3. Provide guidance and create linkages to support vocational and employment pathways for older children.
4. Implement Life Skills training and activities that promote children’s interests and talents.

Networking & Advocacy

1. Collaborate with key government departments and other organizations/CCIs regarding best practices in Reform Care in Kenya.
2. Attend CCI Meetings when required.
3. Liaise and network with various government departments/community organizations regarding care for children and families.
4. Regularly promote HOTGS Project through various avenues to attract and maintain donors.

Financial Accountability

1. Develop a spending plan and monitor expenditures to keep the program on a budget.

Child Protection

1. Adhere to all policies including Child Protection Policy.
2. Ensure the Duty of Care for children is upheld and undertake risk assessments as required.