Vacancies

International Consultant

International Consultancy for the development of a Methodology on Youth Mental Health and Trauma-sensitive approaches to MHPSS

Location: remote

Language: English, Russian (desirable) 

Duration of contract: 01.05.2025-30.06.2025  

Background

As part of the youth mental health and peacebuilding project IDem funded by UNPBF in the Kyrgyz Republic, Saferworld and local implementing partners PF “DIA” and PU “Peace Initiatives” aim to strengthen existing approaches to youth mental health by developing Youth Mental Health methodology and integrating trauma-sensitive response approaches to mental health and psychosocial support. The need to address trauma—both collective and individual— especially in post-conflict contexts, is a crucial element and the project seeks to integrate trauma-sensitive elements into mental health responses across its mental health network which will be further trained on the Methodology of Collective and Individual Trauma-sensitive Responses.

To achieve this, we are seeking an experienced international consultant to remotely lead the development of an enhanced methodology on Youth Mental Health and Trauma-sensitive approaches to MHPSS that reflects best practices in trauma-informed care and builds the capacity of partner organizations to respond more effectively to the mental health needs of youth affected by various forms of trauma. Upon development of the methodology the international consultant will remotely work with a local consultant to adapt the methodology to the local context and needs and prepare him/her to deliver training (ToT) on the developed methodology for the project partners with a remote support from the international consultant if needed.     

Objective of the Consultancy

The main objective of this consultancy is to develop an expanded youth mental health methodology that incorporates trauma-sensitive principles and to strengthen the knowledge and awareness of project partners (primarily DIA and other affiliated organizations) and mental health networks in trauma-responsive practices:

• Develop a comprehensive methodology on youth mental health and trauma-sensitive responses (collective and individual) that includes tools, frameworks, and processes for program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Review existing literature, models, and best practices in youth mental health and trauma-sensitive approaches.
• Consult with key in country stakeholders including youth, mental health professionals, and partner organizations (DIA, PI).
• Ensure the methodology is inclusive, youth/gender-sensitive, and culturally appropriate.
• Work with a local consultant to adapt the methodology to the local context and needs, and prepare him/her to deliver training (ToT) on the developed methodology to the project partners (develop training materials).

Scope of Work

The international consultant will be expected to:

• Review existing youth mental health methodology applied by project partners and/or other organizations in Kyrgyzstan (for example, “You” methodology).
• Conduct a needs assessment (if needed) to identify current gaps in addressing trauma (individual and collective).
• Develop an updated methodology on youth mental health, integrating trauma-sensitive approaches and best practices.
• Facilitate consultations/workshops with partners (especially with DIA) to gather input and build ownership of the methodology.
• Develop training session materials on the new methodology for project partners on trauma-sensitive responses and practical application of the methodology.
• Develop guidance tools and materials that accompany the methodology for easier implementation by partner organizations.

Deliverables

The consultant will deliver the following:

• One methodology on Youth Mental Health and Trauma-sensitive approaches to MHPSS
• Training (ToT) materials for partners on the methodology
• At least four consultation meetings with local partners (DIA and PI) and other in-country organizations
• Peer-to-peer remote guidance and preparation of a local consultant to the delivery of a ToT on the methodology for the project partners
• Final report summarizing the process, key recommendations, and next steps

Duration and Timeline

The consultancy is expected to take place over a period of 2 months, starting from May 1st and concluding by June 30th 2025. A detailed timeline will be developed in consultation with the selected consultant.

Reporting and Supervision: The consultant will report to the Project Manager at Saferworld, and will work in close coordination with DIA and other project partners.

Qualifications and Experience

The ideal consultant will have:

• Proven expertise in youth mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) – over 5 years
• Demonstrated experience in trauma-informed care, with a focus on both individual and collective trauma, over 5 years
• Experience developing methodologies, training materials, or practical guidance tools - over 5 years
• Experience working with civil society organizations or multi-stakeholder projects - over 5 years
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Knowledge of Russian is an asset

Application Process

Saferworld invites expressions of interest from international consultants with the required skills and experience. The expression of interest should comprise:   

• A short technical proposal outlining methodology, timeline, and budget. The budget should cover daily rates (s) and any related expenses.  Rates should be in USD and inclusive of VAT. 
• CV, including contact details for two referees/references.  
• Examples of relevant past work (a similar methodology).

Please submit expressions of interest with all supporting information to (znazarova@saferworld-global.org ). Your e-mail must have the subject heading indicating in the title: IDem Project International Consultant  

Deadline for applications is 25th April 2025  

We regret only shortlisted candidates/companies will be contacted. It is anticipated that interviews will take place the week following the application deadline.