SCOPE OF WORK / BACKGROUND
Jamaica has an estimated prevalence of 1.6% among the general population. Based on modeled estimates and case based surveillance data, it is estimated that 29,000 persons are currently living with HIV in Jamaica. Approximately 84% of the estimated number is aware of their status. This is followed by a large gap in the continuum of care with 43% of those diagnosed on ARVs and 55% of those on treatment being virally suppressed.
PLACE is a methodology used to identify sites within high STI/HIV transmission areas (HTA’s) where people meet new sexual partners. PLACE seeks to reduce incidences of STI/HIV transmission among those that socialize at these sites and the interventions are targeted at visitors and staff of identified sites. The PLACE objectives are to change and reinforce behaviour to:
- Increase consistent condoms use
- Increase use of VCT services
- Increase use of STD services
- Reduce sex during symptomatic STD period
- Increase condom-carrying habit
The Community Peer Educator – PLACE will work closely with the assigned Parish Coordinator – PLACE to implement interventions in the parish in identified clusters. Functions will include:
- Visit sites and assist in the process of :
- Determining venue eligibility
- Screening eligible sites for reported willingness
- Mapping eligible sites
SPECIFIC OUTPUTS:
The Community Peer Educator shall have specific responsibility for the achievement of the objective, which relates to the reduction of HIV transmission at the PLACE sites by performing such duties as:
- Sites visited and assist in the following process completed:
- Determining venue eligibility
- Screening eligible sites for reported willingness
- Mapping eligible sites
- Training conducted as specific at designated sites.
- Site influential identified and sensitized in basic HIV/AIDS prevention education and the PLACE intervention.
- Weekly monitoring of sites conducted within assigned cluster and ensures stocks of condoms and IEC materials are replenished
- Peer links (e.g. CSW if applicable) identified and trained as peer links in condom skills and negotiation.
- Special partly events’ conducted at assigned sites (e.g. freaky nights) to promote rapid HIV testing and counselling and consistent condom use.
- Special party events/intensive site and rapid HIV test and counselling sessions per event conducted.
- Other interventions completed as per PLACE work plan
- Biweekly report submitted as per template on sites being monitored Officer.
QUALIFICATIONS:
The successful applicant should possess the following qualifications:
- Four CXC Subjects
- Completion of secondary level education.
- Basic knowledge of HIV/STIs, Behaviour Change, Public Health and Health Promotion
- Able to communicate effectively with peers and with people in authority
- Experience in attending nightclubs, bars and exotic clubs.
- Incumbents will be expected to work at irregular hours – mostly at nights, can be called on at the last minute and will need to interact and engage with patrons socializing at these PLACE sites.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB
- Exposure to highly confidential and sensitive information
- May be required to work beyond normal working hours in order to meet deadlines.
We thank all applicants for their expressions of interest however, only those shortlisted will be contacted.
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