Mission and objectives

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees was established on December 14, 1950, by the United Nations General Assembly. UNHCR provides protection and assistance to refugees worldwide. UNHCR currently works in more than 120 countries and helps over 43 million people worldwide; refugees or those uprooted within their own countries. The UN Refugee Agency also cares for asylum seekers, returnees, and stateless persons. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country (www.unhcr.org).

Context

Each registration center in Mafraq Urban and Zaatari Camp receives over 500 refugees daily, who require support through the lenses of age, gender, and diversity, in accordance with UNHCR’s policies on Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) and Accountability to Affected People (AAP). The office is structured to address the varied needs of refugees attending for registration and protection interviews. Recognizing the critical role of play in child development, and to address the challenges faced by children accompanying their parents to interviews, child-friendly play areas have been established in each registration center. These areas offer children opportunities for play and engagement in various activities, serving not only as sources of enjoyment but also as secure environments that promote a sense of safety amidst their difficult circumstances. Through ongoing enhancements to these play areas, UNHCR reaffirms its commitment to fostering children’s happiness, development, and emotional well-being. This UNV assignment involves serving as a play area volunteer. It is important to note that the volunteer may be featured in media, including social media, photographs, and videos, and UNHCR cannot prevent such appearances in public or external contexts. The volunteer should understand that their image may be publicly accessible online. The objectives of the play area volunteer assignment are to: 1. Provide engaging and age-appropriate entertainment for children aged 3 to 13 years, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. 2. Facilitate a seamless and confidential environment for parents, allowing for private interviews without disturbances or interruptions. 3. Implement comprehensive safety measures to address any potential protection concerns. 4. Enable parents to fully engage with and benefit from intended services, alleviating childcare concerns by offering a safe and supervised space for their children during their visit. 5. Develop and implement age-appropriate activities that promote creativity, learning, and social interaction among children. Qualified Refugee candidates are highly encouraged to apply. Additional information: UN Community Volunteers in Jordan are entitled to: • Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) at the amount of JOD 440.66 • Annual and learning leaves; • Free Medical and life insurance; and • Free access to different learning platforms. For more information on UN Volunteer benefits, entitlements and support, please visit: https://www.unv.org/volunteer-your-country-conditions-service

Task Description

Under the direct supervision of the Registration Associate in the Registration Unit, the UN Volunteer will: • Communicate any misinformation or concerns within the refugee/asylum seeker community. • Provide support and a warm welcome to all children visiting the UNHCR Mafraq Sub-Office or Zaatari Camp Office. • Establish and maintain safe and secure play areas on a daily basis. • Lead games and supervise children during activities. • Engage with children about their concerns and worries. • Foster positive relationships with children, parents, caregivers, and professionals. • Respond to injuries and emergencies as necessary. Desirable Skills and experience: • A previous related work experience is a plus • The ability to work well with others • To be flexible and open to change • Excellent interpersonal communication skills. • The ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure • Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations • Thinking and reasoning skills • Advanced higher education degree or relevant training and/or professional experience may be an advantage.

Competencies and values

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Planning and organising • Professionalism • Self-management

Living conditions and remarks

Mafraq, the assignment’s duty station, is the capital city of Mafraq Governorate and is located 80 km to the north of Amman. People are friendly to visitors. Services in terms of banking, transportation, health and communications are easily available. Road network is good both in terms of spread and quality of the roads. Public transportation in Mafraq is limited. Taxis are relatively cheap and easily available. There are a number of shops and restaurants. Accommodation options can be found; however, it is worth noting that prices have generally increased in the past few years. There are no specific security threats. According to the assessment of the UN Department of Safety & Security (UNDSS) Jordan is a family duty station (category B hardship). The UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials.