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.
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 are 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/
Background of project
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.
Objectives
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 recognised as critical players in responding to development challenges as they possess a deep understanding of the local context and are often the first responders in times of crisis.
The Research project on Transformational Localisation: Assessing Tangible, Intangible, and Opportunity Costs of Change aims to delve into the intricate landscape of organisational change within a humanitarian and development context, specifically focusing on the complexities faced by humanitarian and development organisations, especially faith-based, transitioning towards true localisation.
By scrutinising both the financial investments required for structural adjustments and the subtler, often overlooked shifts in organisational culture, relationships, and ethos, this study aspires to offer a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted costs involved. Through this exploration, we aim to contribute valuable insights that can guide other organisations, especially faith-based, in navigating similar paths, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the pursuit of authentic localisation.
The research will be supported by case studies and examples. Key consideration will be given to proposals that demonstrate experience in relevant work and multi-country research, compromise a team of senior-level professionals with expertise in organisational governance and system changes, 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 here:
https://odi.org/en/publications/localising-emergency-preparedness-and-response-through-partnerships/
https://islamic-relief.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IRW-STRIDE-Conceptual-Framework-2023-Web-ED..pdf
This study will focus on answering critical questions that organisations must face in their journey to true localisation, including but not limited to the organisation’s governance structure, cultural shifts, departmental roles/responsibilities that come with the transitions, portfolio/Income, perceptions of donors and beneficiaries, etc;
- What are the direct financial implications and resource allocations required for an international humanitarian and development organisation to implement a comprehensive localisation process across its local offices?
- How does the organisational culture shift during the localisation process, and what are the intangible costs associated with potential resistance or adaptation to this shift?
- What are the overall tangible and intangible costs, both in financial terms and organisational impact, if the international humanitarian and development organisation opts to maintain traditional, non-localised approaches without embracing localisation?
The research will propose recommendations for the best strategies and governance structure to ensure the implementation of true localisation.
The project should be concluded within a 3 months timeframe, should include on-ground field realities to support evidence-based advocacy, and propose recommendations.
Scope and dependencies
Information concerning scope and dependencies can be found below;
Acknowledging the nuanced interplay of tangible, intangible and opportunity costs, the study seeks to unveil the hidden dynamics that accompany the transformative process of localisation within an organisation. By scrutinising both the financial investments required for structural adjustments and the subtler, often overlooked shifts in organisational culture, relationships, and ethos, this study aspires to offer a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted costs involved.
For this comprehensive research, IR seeks interdisciplinary contributions from Universities/Research and Policy Institutes/ experienced Independent Consultants on the costs associated with system changes made as part of localisation efforts using examples and case studies.
Additionally, this research will identify challenges, opportunities and a way forward to ensure the organisation’s effective role in localisation.
Availability of team members (for interviews/data or information collection) from IRW headquarters, IR family member offices, IR field offices and local partners.
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 months 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 for internal use with strategic articulation of primary and secondary data (25-30 pages max) and a summary report for external sharing. The study will comprise of a list of gaps, findings, analysis, case studies, and recommendations.
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 on the current state of localisation within the humanitarian and development space, the challenges and opportunities that prevail, and the costs associated with system changes required for true localisation.
- Identification of key stakeholders and experts in the field of localisation, disaster management, sustainable development and related fields from IR and other relevant 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 costs vary in different regions.
- 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 along with a presentation of findings and a 2-page policy brief. 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, conference presentation etc) 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.
Deliverables
The deliverables for this project are as follows;
- 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 for internal use with strategic articulation of primary and secondary data (25-30 pages max) and a summary report for external sharing. The study will comprise of a list of gaps, findings, analysis, case studies, and recommendations.
- A policy brief (2-4 page) of the research study and one additional output (blog post, conference presentation, podcast etc) 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.
Project outputs
Evidence-based research publication that will be shared internally, a document brief and policy brief that will 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, sampling pool and 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 for internal use (max 24-30 pages), a summary report and policy brief for external sharing. 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), International Programmes Department and senior management at IR. Please allow 1.5 hours for this session.
- Additional output in the form of a webinar, blog post, conference presentation etc will be delivered by the consultant to a wider audience to share key findings and lessons learned.
Required competencies
The successful consultant or firm should have:
- Demonstrate experience in relevant work and multi-country research, senior-level professional (s) with expertise in organisational governance and system changes, and are creative in their methodologies from inception to final reporting phases.
- Sound understanding of the current humanitarian environment, particularly discourse around Localisation and Local partnerships.
- Must have experience in accessing and managing large bodies of diverse data and extracting relevant information from them and drawing appropriate conclusions and recommendations.
- Understanding of cross-cultural contexts and sensitivities across different geographic regions.
- Familiar with/good understanding of Grand Bargain, Charter for Change, Core Humanitarian Standards, etc.
- Excellent writing and communication skills (high proficiency in the English language).
- Time management skills and ability to complete the assignments within the allocated time.
- Must be able to converse with stakeholders from a variety of background in order to elicit specific information.
- Must respect the values of Islamic Relief.
Timetable and reporting information
The total duration of the assignment is 3 months. The project is expected to run for a maximum of 45 working days (starting in February 2024 and concluding by the end of May 2024) with the following schedule;
(Note: The proposed timeframe can be changed according to the need of the programmes and management).
Date
Description
Responsibility
7th Feb 2024
Tender live date
IRW
26 Feb 2024
Final date for submission of bid proposal
Consultant
26 Feb 2024
Proposal review
IRW
29 Feb – 4 March 2024
Interviews with shortlisted firms/consultants
IRW
9 March 2024
Contract award and finalisation
IRW
30 March 2024
First research draft
Consultant
30 May 2024
Final research report
Consultant
Reporting information
Contract duration: Duration to be agreed with the consultant
Direct report: Head of DRMD (Disaster Risk Management Department)
Job Title: Consultant, Tender for the transformational localisation: Assessing tangible, intangible and opportunity costs of change, February 2024
The consultant will communicate and forward deliverables to the IRW DRMD team in the first instance.
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 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
- 40% of the total amount – First upfront payment
Please ensure all documents be supplied in PDF format unless specified above.
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:
- 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 consultancy 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 DRMD.
- The consultancy will be carried out under the auspices of the Islamic Relief Worldwide, Programme Quality. The lead consultant 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 proposal 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 Consultant 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 March 2024 (exact date to be mutually agreed). The selected candidate is expected to work remotely and report to the Head of DRMD.
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 26th February 2024 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.
All applicants/bidders must also fill in appendix 2 which is a new mandatory requirement for suppliers to be registered onto our system and for their bids to be accepted and processed.
For any issues relating to the tender or its contents please email directly to; tendering@irworldwide.org. This address is for queries and advice only.
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 the transformational localisation: Assessing tangible, intangible and opportunity costs of change, February 2024
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.
Appendix 2
To express your interest in this tender or to register your interest simply fill in the information in the table beneath and return to tendering@irworldwide.org.
The information beneath in red is mandatory and must be supplied without fail otherwise you will not be registered on our system. If in doubt contact us on the email address above.
Expression of interest or to your register interest
Tender name
Full company name/consultant name
Full name of contact person
Full telephone number (including country code)
Full postal address
Property Name/Number
Address Line 1
Town/City
Country
Postcode
Complete email address
Company VAT number
Company registration number
To access or download the tender documents please follow the link below;
https://www.islamic-relief.org/tenders/category/open-tenders/