Job Description

JOB PURPOSE

The purpose of a Communication Block Officer is to build and maintain positive relationships between an organization and the community it serves through communication, collaboration, and partnerships at the UCs block level. Their role is to provide support to communication component and ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives. They will support the communication component of micro-planning through the Union Council Polio Eradication Committees (UPECs) of the assigned UCs within a block and oversee and support UC level social mobilization plans, the strengthening of local partnerships, and inclusion of and access to mobile and migrant populations in polio eradication activities. They will also provide support and training to Community Mobilizers and other partners especially focusing on interpersonal communication skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Build strong relationships with communities in the region and ensure that their needs and perspectives are taken into account in programme planning and implementation.
• Develop and maintain an effective communication network with community leaders, local authorities, and other stakeholders.
• Facilitate the formation of community groups and networks to support the programme objectives.
• Support the development and implementation of community-led initiatives and activities.
• Develop and maintain challenge mapping and social profiling of Missed Children (Recorded Refusals, Still NA, and Persistently Missed Children) of the previous round for carrying out engagement activities prior to the next campaign.
• Collaborate with other team members to develop and implement communication strategies to raise awareness of the organization’s advocacy issues and achievements.
• Ensure that programme activities are sensitive to the cultural and social norms of the community.
• Develop and maintain a database of community groups, networks, and key stakeholders.
• Participate in regular monitoring and evaluation of programme activities to assess community engagement levels and identify areas for improvement.
• Any other task assigned by the direct supervisor, second line supervisor, Team Lead/SBC Specialist, SBC Officer and National and/or provincial EOC.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATION 

• Bachelor’s degree in social sciences or in a relevant field, such as public health, social work, or community development.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE 

• At least 2-3 years of experience in community mobilization & engagement activities, preferably in immunization or public health programmes.
• Experience working with diverse communities and an understanding of cultural sensitivity and humility.
• Ability to travel within the Block as needed.
• Knowledge of local languages and customs, as well as the cultural and political dynamics that impact immunization programmes, is an advantage.

REQUIRED SKILLS 

• Knowledge of local languages and customs, as well as the cultural and political dynamics that impact immunization programmes, is an advantage.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport and relationships with diverse groups of people.
• Strong organizational skills to plan and execute community engagement activities effectively.
• Knowledge and understanding of community dynamics and cultural norms to navigate potential barriers.
• Data collection and analysis skills for community engagement activities.
• Knowledge of levels of community participation and collaboration in health programmes.
• Timeliness and quality of feedback gathered from the community and integrated into programme planning.
• Effectiveness of community engagement strategies in building trust and relationships with the community.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

• Percentage of community members engaged in health programmes and activities.
• Number of community events organized or participated in.
• Number of community-based organizations and leaders engaged in immunization activities.
• Number and quality of community engagement activities conducted and their impact on programme outcomes.
• Percentage increase in immunization coverage in the community.
• Quality and timeliness of reporting on community engagement activities and outcomes.
• Ability to effectively respond to community concerns and feedback.
• Success in building and maintaining community trust and support for the programme.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other programme staff and stakeholders to achieve programme goals and objectives.
• Compliance with programme policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and professional development.