Child Protection Advocate and Support Specialist

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Community impact

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Child Protection Advocate and Support Specialist for our client in Tembisa, Gauteng. The role focuses on direct advocacy for children and families, developing support plans, and ensuring access to essential services within the community.

The position involves field-based work with extensive community interaction, collaboration with social workers, and participation in multidisciplinary team activities. A relevant degree and 3+ years' experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Child Development, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working directly with children and families in protection or support roles.
• Knowledge of South Africa child protection laws, policies, and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct advocacy and support to children and families affected by abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Assess children's needs and develop individualized support plans.
• Facilitate access to services including legal aid, counseling, healthcare, and education.
• Collaborate with social workers, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and schools.
• Deliver workshops and training on child protection for families and communities.
• Maintain confidential case records in line with policies and legal requirements.
• Participate in case conferences and multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Conduct community awareness campaigns on child rights and protection.
• Monitor progress and adjust support plans as needed.
• Contribute to program strategy and policy development in child protection.

Skills

Assessment skills

Case management

Trauma-informed care

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Report writing

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Child Development, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading non-profit organization committed to safeguarding children's rights and well-being, is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Advocate and Support Specialist for their **Tembisa, Gauteng** office. This critical role involves providing direct support to children and families in challenging circumstances, advocating for their rights, and ensuring access to essential services. The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing and implementing programs that promote child safety, resilience, and positive development within the **Tembisa** community and surrounding areas. This is a field-based position requiring extensive interaction within the local community and consistent presence at the **Tembisa** office.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct advocacy and support services to children and families affected by abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Conduct thorough assessments of children's needs and develop individualized support plans.
• Facilitate access to essential services, including legal aid, counseling, healthcare, and educational support.
• Collaborate closely with social workers, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and educational institutions to ensure comprehensive child protection.
• Develop and deliver workshops and training sessions on child protection issues for families and community members.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case records, adhering to organizational policies and legal requirements.
• Participate in case conferences and multi-disciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases.
• Conduct community awareness campaigns to educate the public about child rights and protection.
• Monitor the progress of children and families under your care and make necessary adjustments to support plans.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of program strategies and policies related to child protection.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Child Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working directly with children and families in a protective or supportive capacity.
• In-depth knowledge of child protection legislation, policies, and best practices in South Africa.
• Strong understanding of child development, trauma-informed care, and child psychology.
• Excellent assessment, case management, and intervention skills.
• Proficiency in report writing and record-keeping.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with children and families.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage challenging situations with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within **Tembisa** and the wider **Gauteng** region.
• Commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards and child welfare principles.

Benefits

• Competitive salary that reflects your expertise and dedication.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and specialized training.
• A rewarding career focused on making a profound difference in children's lives.
• Supportive team environment and access to expert supervision.
• Contribution to the positive development of the **Tembisa** community.