Expression of Interest for Researchers to develop a ‘program development and implementation toolkit’ (PDIT) to guide municipal government actions on mental health

KOSHISH National Mental Health Self-Help Organization

Expression of Interest for Researchers to develop a ‘program development and implementation toolkit’ (PDIT) to guide municipal government actions on mental health

KOSHISH is pleased to announce its intention to develop a comprehensive PDIT on Mental Health which is a technical document to guide municipalities in planning, organization and implementation of MHPSS services at Local level. The guide is intended to expand mental health services beyond primary health care setting into communities.

In this regard; we are seeking expression of interest from experienced and dedicated researchers who possess necessary expertise and knowledge in the field of mental health and existing 3 tiers of governance system in Nepal (Federal, Province and Local). Therefore, we invite interested and qualified researcher, meeting the specified requirement to submit an application along with required documents as mentioned below to undertake this assignment.

Project background:

The government of Nepal has formulated several policies, plans and strategies to address the gaps identified in the mental health sector but their implementation is still a big challenge. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Service (MHPSS) is very limited and almost unavailable in the grassroots community as mental health is still not mainstreamed in the general health system. Further, the prevailing barriers such as stigma, discrimination, stereotypes etc are making people with mental health conditions reluctant to speak up about their issues and seek for help. Escalation of such conditions may result in severe mental health conditions and suicide in many cases.

Many communities are equipped with human resources to provide mental health services after mhGAP Training at local health posts. But the proper mobilization of these human resources and assurance of community-based quality mental health services with proper reach to women girls, senior citizens and vulnerable and excluded groups is still a challenge.

Thus, the project aims to develop a technical document to guide municipalities in planning, organization and implementation of quality MHPSS services at the Local level. This document provides guidelines to identify mental health needs, available resources and existing opportunities to expand mental health services beyond primary healthcare settings in the communities. Further, the documents also guide the municipality to plan for the overall mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of the local community through awareness raising and community service while assuring their human rights. 

Objective:

• The primary objective of the project as well as the assignment is to develop a ‘program development and implementation toolkit’ to guide municipal government actions on mental health.

Responsibilities of the researcher:

1. Conduct a thorough literature review and desk review on mental health interventions, evidence-based practices, and tool kits currently available as well as legal framework providing basis for the preparation of the document.
2. Gather existing research and best practices related to mental health promotion, prevention, and self-management.
3. Identify opportunities that exist within communities to promote mental health wellbeing, prevent mental health and psychosocial problems and expand access to quality mental health services
4. Provide guidance on how to identify local mental health needs and match them with activities that build on available resources and opportunities while engaging the local community to enhance mental health resilience.
5. Identify mental health activities, programs and interventions that can be carried out in the communities
6. Ensure the toolkit's content aligns with diverse cultural backgrounds, age groups, and social contexts to promote inclusivity.
7. Conduct pilot testing and gather feedback from users as well as other relevant stakeholders to refine and enhance the tool kit.
8. Collaborate with mental health professionals, psychologists, and experts in the field to prepare as well as validate the toolkit's content and ensure its reliability and efficacy.
9. Finalize the toolkit by incorporating feedback and delivering a comprehensive, evidence- based resource in both Nepali and English.
10. Collaborate with government bodies from project areas and gather required information for toolkit development.
11. Involvement in every project meetings, consultations and workshops in identified project locations.
12. Timely submission of deliverables as mentioned in the project document.

Expression of Interest Submission:

Interested researchers are requested to submit the following information:

1. Cover letter expressing interest in the project and highlighting relevant experiences in developing mental health resources or tool kits.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining academic qualifications, research experience, and publications related to mental health.
3. Proposed methodology and approach to developing the PDIT, including timelines and deliverables.
4. Sample of previous research or publications related to mental health or relevant fields.
5. Budget estimation including breakdowns and any other anticipated expenses such as materials or consultations.
6. Contact details of two referees who can validate researcher's qualifications and work ethic

Researcher profile:

• Master’s in public health, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, social work or equivalent
• At least 3 years of experience on research and/or evaluations related to the theme of mental health
• Knowledge on mandate and functioning of governance system in Nepal
• Proficiency on report writing in both Nepali and English language
• Experience of working with local governments and multisectoral engagement in government sections
• Previous experience on development of similar toolkits is an advantage
• Readiness to adhere to the ethical principles working with person with mental health and psychosocial disability
• Ready to travel to the identified project areas as per the need of the assignment
• Open for team work
• Enthusiastic and passionate to work in the field of mental health and system strengthening

Timeline:

The timeline for this assignment is from 15th August 2023 to 31st December 2023. The researcher will need to work closely with our team to ensure timely completion of deliverables.

Payment:

The payment schedule will be as follows:

Application procedure:

Interested candidates can submit a sealed quotation at KOSHISH central office Kusunti -14, Ranibu Lalitpur.

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/eqsEqeqeAua9eo3U7

The sealed quotation should include the following documents:

• Application including cover letter, the summary understanding of the assignment, research profile, curriculum vitae
• Financial proposal which contains the breakdown of all costs

The applicant is required to provide one example of a previous research/ publication that s/he has authored. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Submission Deadline:

The application must be submitted in the form of a sealed quotation no later than 11th August 2023.

Late submissions will not be considered.

Note:

1. A detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) document will be provided to shortlisted researchers, outlining the project's scope, deliverables, and other relevant information.
2. KOSHISH reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications without assigning any reason whatsoever.
   

In case of any queries and concerns:

Contact person: Sangeeta Khadka

Contact no: 9801856684

Email Id: Sangeeta.khadka@koshishnepal.org, CC to hr@koshishnepal.org