Islamic Relief Worldwide
Islamic Relief is an international aid and development charity, which aims to alleviate the suffering of the world's poorest people. It is an independent Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) founded in the UK in 1984.
With an active presence in over 40 countries across the globe, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for the three billion people still living in poverty. As well as responding to disasters and emergencies, Islamic Relief promotes sustainable economic and social development by working with local communities - regardless of race, religion or gender.
We are signatories to the Grand Bargain, Charter for Change, and the Red Cross Code of Conduct, which sets ethical standards for organisations involved in humanitarian work and commits us to the important principles of impartiality, neutrality and independence. We are also firmly committed to the People in Aid Code of Best Practice. The high quality and impact of our work means we are among only 5 UK-based charities to have been certified against the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS). As full members of the INGO Accountability Charter, our excellence in transparency, good governance and social responsibility is recognised.
Our vision:
Inspired by our Islamic faith and guided by our values, we envisage a caring world where communities are empowered, social obligations are fulfilled, and people respond as one to the suffering of others.
Our mission:
Exemplifying our Islamic values, we will mobilise resources, build partnerships, and develop local capacity, as we work to:
- Enable communities to mitigate the effect of disasters, prepare for their occurrence and respond by providing relief, protection and recovery.
- Promote integrated development and environmental custodianship with a focus on sustainable livelihoods.
- Support the marginalised and vulnerable to voice their needs and address root causes of poverty.
At the international level, Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) has consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council and is a signatory to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Code of Conduct. IRW is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) through raising awareness of the issues that affect poor communities and through its work on the ground. Islamic Relief is one of only 13 charities that have fulfilled the criteria and have become members of the Disasters Emergency Committee (www.dec.org.uk), and is certified by CHS.
IRW endeavours to work closely with local communities, focussing on capacity-building and empowerment to help them achieve development without dependency.
Please see our website for more information http://www.islamic-relief.org/
Project background
STRIDE is a ground-breaking model of institutional capacity enhancement for disaster preparedness and local partnerships, being implemented in over 20 countries in Africa, Asia and Middle East. The project develops and contextualises exercises and capacity strengthening trajectories that are indicated by on-the-ground factors. The project is continuously reviews the changing humanitarian discourse and aligned the workstreams accordingly, ensuring commitments to field teams and local partners according to their needs.
The impacts of emerging global challenges, such as a the COVID pandemic, climate change, food and financial crises, extreme poverty, political and economic instability, energy security, and displacement are increasingly alarming for humanitarian organisations, thus, making it extremely difficult for operating in this complex and unfavourable environments. Keeping in view the changing humanitarian sector dynamics, STRIDE contributes to sensitising the organisational leadership, fundraising partners, and field offices on the importance of Localisation and partnerships.
The Research project
The humanitarian sector has experienced a shift towards localisation in recent years, which involves empowering local communities to take ownership of and lead the humanitarian response in their respective contexts. Local actors are increasingly being recognized as critical players in responding to crises, as they possess a deep understanding of the local context and are often the first responders in times of crisis. Faith actors have played a vital role in this shift towards localisation, and their importance in the humanitarian response cannot be overstated.
Faith actors are individuals or organizations who are motivated by their faith to engage in humanitarian work. They are often deeply embedded in the communities they serve and have a strong network of local relationships. They are well-positioned to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need, as they often have a deep understanding of the local context, cultural norms, and traditions. They also have a high level of trust within the community, which is essential in building strong relationships and promoting sustainable solutions.
The Research project on Faith actor’s value addition in Localisation: opportunities and barriers in humanitarian architecture aims to present a detailed narrative of the role of faith actors in global localisation efforts, especially in developing and conflict prone regions/countries. The research will be supported by case studies and examples from the ground. Key consideration will be given to proposals that demonstrate experience in relevant work and multi-country research, propose concrete ideas and regions of study, and are creative in their methodologies from inception to final reporting phases.
NOTE: This research is closely aligned with the STRIDE project and should complement it. Read more about STRIDE I here:
https://odi.org/en/publications/localising-emergency-preparedness-and-response-through-partnerships/
Objectives
This assignment aims to consolidate the multifaceted role of faith actors in humanitarian architecture, especially in localisation efforts. This study will clearly distinguish that faith actors are not a homogeneous group but differ in terms of beliefs, practices, and value and therefore understands their unique perspectives and experiences. The study will consolidate the opportunities and challenges of working with local faith actors in different humanitarian responses. The research will propose recommendations on how best to engage and collaboration with faith actors in localisation efforts.
The project should be concluded within a 3 month timeframe, should include on-ground field realities to support evidence-based advocacy, and propose recommendations.
Project scope
This research assignment seeks interdisciplinary contributions from Universities/Research and Policy Institutes/ Independent Consultants from the social sciences on the role of faith actors in localisation using examples and case studies from different humanitarian contexts.
The call for research aims to produce evidence-based recommendations for effectively engaging faith actors in humanitarian challenges. The aim is to identify faith actor’s role and the unique set of skills and resources they bring to compliment work of humanitarian actors. Additionally, this research will identify challenges and opportunities of faith actor’s involvement in humanitarian response, and a way forward to ensure their effective involvement in localisation.
Methodology and approach
The research team will propose a relevant and fitting methodology for the research build upon the following key needs of IRW;
- A desk review research on the role of faith actors in localisation, and the challenges and opportunities of integrating their work humanitarian and climate change work streams.
- Identification of key stakeholders and experts in the field of climate change, localisation, disaster management, human rights, and related fields from relevant ministries, religious networks, NGOs/INGOs, UN Agencies & CSOs for primary data review.
- Identification and compilation of case studies from the different regions of interest to complement the study in highlighting how faith actors support community empowerment and localisation efforts.
- The research is meant for both academic and non-academic audiences so the language and tone of the study should be set accordingly – a blend of analytical and story-telling approach is encouraged
- The process must reflect inclusive and participatory approach.
Roles and responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities are listed below for both the consultant and IRW;
IRW:
- IRW will share relevant policy and strategy documents with the research teams.
- IRW will facilitate and connect the research teams with the IR field office teams.
- IRW will approve the final layout and research plan jointly with the research team
Research team:
- The research team will submit a financial proposal, and a technical proposal clearly outlining the expected table of contents for the study, methodology, sampling, data collection, data tabulation etc.
- The research team will submit a comprehensive research paper with strategic articulation of primary and secondary data. The study will comprise of a list of gaps, findings, analysis, case studies, and recommendations.
- The research team will submit one additional output (blog post, policy brief or conference presentation) to promote the study and dissemination of key findings and policy recommendations emerging from the research.
- The research team will be responsible for any administrative and logistics cost related to the assigned task will be the responsibility of the research team.
- The Research team will ensure data collection using appropriate mediums and methods (interviews, literate review etc.)
- The Research team will ensure timely submission of research deliverables.
NOTE: Priority will be given to proposals that demonstrate originality and creative methodologies.
Reporting
Below is a list of reporting information in relation to this project
- The research team will ensure the timely completion of the research study within a 3 month timeframe without compromising on the quality of the study report.
- The research is meant for both academic and non-academic audiences so the language and tone of the study should be set accordingly – a blend of analytical and story-telling approach is encouraged.
- The research team will submit a comprehensive research paper with strategic articulation of primary and secondary data. The study will comprise of a list of gaps, findings, analysis, case studies, and recommendations. Maximum length of the paper should be between 24-30 pages.
Deliverables
Deliverables for this project would be;
- The research team will submit a financial proposal, and a technical proposal clearly outlining the expected table of contents for the study, methodology, sampling, data collection, data tabulation etc.
- A comprehensive research paper with strategic articulation of primary and secondary data. The study will comprise of a list of gaps, findings, analysis, case studies, and recommendations. Maximum length of the paper should be between 25-30 pages.
- A brief (2-4 page) quality summary of the research study and one additional output (blog post, policy brief or conference presentation) to promote the study and dissemination of key findings and policy recommendations emerging from the research.
- The research is meant for both academic and non-academic audiences so the language and tone of the study should be set accordingly – a blend of analytical and story-telling approach is encouraged.
- All administrative and logistics cost related to the assigned task will be the responsibility of the research team.
Required compentencies
Required competencies of the consultant would be:
- Have a broad understanding and experience of conducting evaluations, outcome and impact assessments and reviews using a variety of methodologies and conducting desk reviews and studies.
- Must have experience in accessing and managing large bodies of diverse data and extracting relevant information from them and drawing appropriate conclusions and recommendations.
- Must be able to converse with stakeholders from a variety of background in order to elicit specific information.
- Will have significant technical and practical field-based research experience on the main and cross-cutting themes of the research in the context of international humanitarian and development sector, especially in the Global South, and be able to use this knowledge to construct effective enquiries and order information received.
- Must distinguish how their proposed ideas and methodologies for the research are original and creative.
- Must respect the values of Islamic Relief.
The chosen evaluation team will be supported by IRW Disaster Risk Management Department (DRMD) team.
This research project requires a dedicated and specialised research team which can undertake and conclude the assignment in 3 months.
The research project greatly emphasises on original ideas and innovative methodologies. A diverse team with creative ideas and strong local networks is ideal for this project.
Project outputs
Evidence-based research publication that will be presented at multiple global networking and partnership platforms for information sharing and engagement.
In addition to the above mentioned deliverables, the following key considerations are expected;
- the consultant is expected to produce a detailed work plan and inception report, developed with and approved by IRW, setting out the detailed methodology, relevant technical standards to be used as reference for the evaluation, sampling strategy and deliverables prior to commencing the primary data collection and review,
- The work plan, inception report, draft report, final report, presentation, etc., and communication language must be in English.
- Final study report (max 24-30 pages). The consultant is invited to propose most suitable report structure layout.
- Anonymised copies of all data collected in Excel or appropriate format which would enable cross-checking and any additional analysis.
- A presentation of draft findings and recommendations which delivered to Disaster Risk Management Department (DRMD), Regional Desk and country teams. Please allow 1.5 hours for this session.
- Additional output in the form of a webinar, blog post, and policy brief will be delivered by the consultant to a wider audience to share key findings and lessons learned.
Timetable and reporting information
The total duration of the assignment is 3 months. The project is expected to run for a maximum of 45working days (starting in August 2023 and concluding by end of November 2023) with the following schedule;
Date
Description
Responsibility
24th July 2023
Tender live date
IRW
7th August 2023
Final date for submission of bid proposal
Consultant
13th August 2023
Proposal review
IRW
22th August 2023
Interviews with shortlisted firms/consultants
IRW
28th August 2023
Contract award and finalisation
IRW
25th September 2023
First research draft
Consultant
30th November 2023
Final research report
Consultant
Reporting information:
Contract duration: Duration to be specified by the consultant (no more than three months preferred)
Direct report: Head of Disaster Risk Management Department.
Job Title: Consultant: faith actors value addition in localisation: opportunities and barriers in humanitarian architecture
The consultant will communicate in the first instance with and will forward deliverables to the IRW Disaster Risk Management Department.
Proposal to tender and costing
The consultant interested in carrying out this work must submit the following items as part of their proposal/bid:
- Detailed cover letter/proposal outlining a methodology and approach briefing note
- Résumé(s) or CV(s) outlining relevant skills and experience possessed by the consultant who will be carrying out the tasks and any other personnel who will work on the project
- Example(s) of relevant work done of similar evaluations in PDF
- The consultancy daily rate (fill in appendix 1)
- Expenses policy of the tendering consultant. Incurred expenses will not be included but will need to be agreed in advance prior to contract award (fill in appendix 1)
- Be able to complete the assignment within the timeframe stated above
- Be able to demonstrate experience of outcome reviews, mapping and impact assessment/evaluation approaches for similar work
Terms and conditions
The consultant would provide financial proposal outlining detailed break up of costs and charges. There would be formal agreement on payment schedule and funds transfer process once the consultant would be selected. Payment will be made in accordance with the deliverables and deadlines for this project so are as follows:
- 40% of the total amount – First upfront payment - 30% of the total amount – submission of the first draft of the evaluation report - 30% of the total amount – submission of the final evaluation report including all outputs and attachments mentioned above
We can be flexible with payment terms, invoices are normally paid on net payment terms of 30 days.
Additional information and conditions of contract
The following additional information will be expected from the consultant and be pursuant to the conditions printed beneath as well as the terms and conditions in the consultancy contract.
- The ToR document is between the consultant and Islamic Relief Worldwide.
- Islamic Relief Worldwide is a legally registered charity under the laws of the United Kingdom charity registration number 328158
- This document covers the research project identified and described in this document and related correspondence and may not be expended for any other purposes without the prior written approval of Islamic Relief Worldwide, Head of Disaster Risk Management Department
- The project will be carried out under the auspices of the Islamic Relief Worldwide, Disaster Risk Management Department. The lead researcher will be working in the capacity of a freelance consultant, an individual or for an organisation.
- Collected data, information, reports and reference documents should be submitted, along with any audio files and transcripts collected.
- Intellectual Property Rights to all research, and data, conducted and collected and the final report belongs solely to Islamic Relief Worldwide.
- In case of contraventions or breach of any of the terms of the agreement, any outstanding payments to the Lead Researcher or the organisation will be withheld.
During the consultancy period,
IRW will only cover:
Consultancy fees
Any travel costs to visit IRW or any of our country offices if required.
IRW will not cover:
Tax obligations as required by the country in which he/she will file income tax.
Any pre/post assignment medical costs. These should be covered by the consultant
Medical and travel insurance arrangements and costs. These should be covered by the consultant.
To access or download the tender documents please follow the link below;
https://www.islamic-relief.org/tenders/category/open-tenders/
How to apply
Consultancy contract
This will be for an initial period that is to be specified by the consultant commencing in August 2023 (exact date to be mutually agreed). The selected candidate is expected to work remotely and report to the Head of Disaster Risk Management Department of IRW.
The terms upon which the consultant will be engaged are as per the consultancy agreement. The invoice is to be submitted at the end of the assignment and will be paid on net payment terms 30 days though we can be flexible.
All potential applicants must fill in the table beneath in Appendix 1 to help collate key data pertaining to this tender. The applicant must be clear about other expenses being claimed in relation to this consultancy and these must be specified clearly.
For this consultancy all applicants are required to submit a covering letter and CV’s of all potential consultants including the project lead.
A proposal including, planned activities, methodology, deliverables, timeline, and cost proposal (including expenses) are expected.
Other relevant supporting documents should be included as the consultants sees fit and this may include examples of similar work done.
All applicants must have a valid visa or a permit to work in the UK (if travel is required to the UK). A valid visa/work permit is also required for those areas required to be visited as part of this consultancy.
This consultancy is open to any persons, freelancers, sole traders, research firms, consultants, policy and research think tanks, universities, academics, SME’s, large organisations and corporations including NGO’s.
Tender dates and contact details
All proposals are required to be submitted by Monday 7th August 2023 at 1.00pm UK time pursuant to the attached guidelines for submitting a quotation and these be returned to; tendering@irworldwide.org
For any issues relating to the tender or its contents please email directly to; tendering@irworldwide.org
Following submission, IRW may engage in further discussion with applicants concerning tenders in order to ensure mutual understanding and an optimal agreement.
Quotations must include the following information for assessment purposes.
- Timescales
- Full break down of costs including taxes, expenses and any VAT and be able to demonstrate best value for money
- References (three are preferred)
- Technical competency for this role
- Demonstrable experience of developing a similar piece of work including a methodology
Note: The criteria are subject to change.
Appendix 1
Please fill in the table below. It is essential all sections be completed and where relevant additional expenses be specified in detail. In case of questions about how to complete the table below, please contact; tendering@irworldwide.org
Cost evaluation for consultancy on Tender for consultancy services on faith actors value addition in localisation opportunities and barriers in humanitarian architecture, July 2023
Full name of all consultants working on this project
Full company trading name
No of proposed hours per week
No. of proposed days
Preferred days
Non preferred days
Earliest available start date
Expected project finish date
Day rate (required for invoicing purposes) £
Total cost for consultancy in GBP (less taxes and expenses) £
Expenses (flights) £
Expenses (accommodation) £
Expenses (transfers) £
Expenses (in country travel) £
Expenses (visa) £
Expenses (security) £
Expenses (food) £
Expenses (print/stationary) £
Expenses other (please specify) £
Total expenses £
Total VAT or taxes £
Total cost for consultancy in GBP (inclusive of taxes and expenses) £
Note
The applicant is expected to take responsibility for paying full taxes and social charges in his/her country of residence.
To access or download the tender documents please follow the link below;
https://www.islamic-relief.org/tenders/category/open-tenders/