Community Health Worker (Breastfeeding)

at  TB HIV Care

JOB ADVERT SUMMARY

TB HIV Care (THC), in existence since 1929, is an internationally recognised non-profit organisation. We provide health care services throughout South Africa to both the general population and communities at increased risk for HIV and TB, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers and people who use drugs. THC provides a stimulating work environment and the opportunity to work with leaders in the field of HIV and TB prevention and care. Our work culture is adapted to the constantly evolving South African health care environment and will suit solution-driven team players interested in opportunities for career development while working to connect people with care.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12
• Home Based Care certificate
• Basic knowledge of Breastfeeding practices
• Trained/orientated on all protocols, guidelines and policies related to infant feeding (i.e. breastfeeding, PMTCT policy, Growth Monitoring and Promotion)
• Knowledgeable in the common issues mothers are faced with in the community that hinder exclusive breastfeeding
• Must be resident in the area and have good knowledge of the geographical area

BREASTFEEDING EDUCATION AND PROMOTION

• Assist the facility where appointed, in their efforts to protect, promote and support Breastfeeding and appropriate infant and young child feeding options for the community they serve
• Support families to get breastfeeding off a good start and establish exclusive breastfeeding by giving them accurate information that is specific to their needs
• Encourage mothers to breastfeed by listening and helping them to explore their barriers and discover ways that allow breastfeeding to be part of their daily lives
• Share information with women regarding infant feeding options in daily group talks in the waiting areas
• Enable mothers to make informed decisions on how they wish to feed their infant
• Conduct one-on-one education sessions with identified mother or on request

SUPPORT HEALTH FACILITIES AND PARTICIPATE IN HEALTH CAMPAIGNS (PREGNANCY EDUCATION WEEK, HUMAN MILK BANKING WEEK, WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK)

• Participate in and plan talks aligned with the specific health campaigns

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

The purpose of the Breastfeeding Community Health Worker is to improve the knowledge of pregnant women, mothers and their partners/family members on breastfeeding management and support these women to breastfeed successfully. They offer education services at the health facilities for women accessing maternity services (antenatal or postnatal) in relation to breastfeeding protection, promotion and support.