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Consultancy work (Afghanistan Programme)

Terms of Reference for a Final Evaluation and Report

ToR

Consultancy work: Final Evaluation and Report

Commencement date

4 July 2025

Duration

c. 8 weeks (subject to change)

Accountable to

CAFOD Afghanistan team – Grace How and Kitty Chevallier

Overview: Conduct a Final Evaluation for a project entitled ‘Provision of humanitarian and livelihood support’, also known as ‘HELA’ (Humanitarian and Economic Livelihoods Assistance’). The 3-year project is funded by Misereor / Katholische Zentralstelle für Entwicklungshilfe (KZE), with co-funding provided by CAFOD. It is implemented by two local partners in Afghanistan, in three provinces, between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2025.

CAFOD has been supporting local organisations in Afghanistan, including the two implementing partners for this project, since the 1980s to help tackle issues of poverty and injustice and to respond to humanitarian emergencies.

Background and Context

Project Brief: This project is a result of partnership and joint work between CAFOD and the consortium members. The project builds on CAFOD’s existing programming in Afghanistan which strengthens the capacity of at-risk households by diversifying their livelihood options. The project focuses on meeting basic needs as well as promoting inclusive development, with the objective of strengthening resilience, particularly for the most vulnerable. As the project approaches the final few months of implementation, CAFOD is seeking to engage an external consultant to conduct a participatory final evaluation for this project. This will evaluate how effectively the project has been implemented, its major impacts and lessons learned, and recommendations for future similar programming. It is expected that the final evaluation will have a particular focus on the consortium partners’ ways of working: the strength of their collaboration, the efficacy and suitability of monitoring and evaluation approaches, and the benefit of learning events and strategies used through the project.

CAFOD and our partners are working with the same target group throughout the duration of the project, not only providing humanitarian and livelihood support, but also raising awareness amongst participants of families' rights from an Islamic perspective. Over the past two decades, much work has been undertaken to empower Afghan households and enable them to exercise their agency. Partners are taking a variety of approaches to further these aims in the project.

Ultimately, the project aims to support and ensure that the rights of poor and vulnerable people in Bamyan, Kabul, and Kunduz provinces are upheld and they have increased agency in their social and economic development.

Directly, the project has been planned to achieve programme outcomes:

1. The basic needs of targeted households are met.
2. Targeted participants have improved resilience through diversified livelihoods.
3. Targeted community leaders and members (male and female) are equipped and empowered with the knowledge and skills to promote and uphold their rights from an Islamic perspective.

Project Target Group and Location: The project will reach a total of 350 participants in three provinces of Afghanistan (Bamyan, Kunduz and Kabul) with a combination of humanitarian assistance, livelihoods training and other activities.

Project Duration: September 2022 – August 2025 (36 months)

Scope of the Final Evaluation:

The purpose of this final evaluation is to assess the overall performance and objectives of the completed project, in relation to the specified objectives, logical framework, and work plans. The evaluation will examine the extent to which project outcomes have been achieved, the quality and sustainability of results, and the relevance and appropriateness of strategies employed and ways of working. This participatory evaluation will analyse not only what has been achieved, but how it was achieved, how it was measured, and what could have been improved. This will include an examination of accountability measures, and how participants and other stakeholders were engaged throughout the implementation process, including how participants were given the opportunity and encouraged to share feedback and help shape the design of the project. The consultant will make and explain recommendations for consideration in implementing future projects of a similar nature.

The evaluation should include a review of the project’s monitoring data, secondary documents, a workshop with staff, and some direct data collection from key stakeholders including targeted participants taking part in the livelihoods training activities, as well as their relatives and community members. Findings of the evaluation will be used to guide and improve future project design and implementation. They should be written up into a final evaluation report (no more than 30 pages) which will be made available to CAFOD, Misereor and both partners.

As well as assessing progress towards logical framework indicators, the evaluation should focus on capturing, documenting and assessing lessons learned to inform future project design and implementation.

The assessment will be conducted in close coordination with CAFOD’s Afghanistan team, including the Country Programme Representative, Programme Officer, and Programme Support Officer.

Objectives of the Final Evaluation:

1. To assess the project and its effectiveness in meeting its three outcomes and supporting targeted Afghan households, through material assistance, livelihoods skill training and associated support, advocacy initiatives, and other activities.
2. To evaluate the strength and appropriateness of the projects MEAL systems:
   1. To what extent did project monitoring and evaluation help track project progress and achievements?
   2. How effectively was participation and accountability built into project design and implementation, and partners’ ways of working with stakeholders?
   3. How effectively were learning opportunities used throughout the project (including peer learning and exchange visits, learning workshops, regular progress workshops, etc.)?
3. To assess and review consortium functionality, partnership dynamics, and collaboration.
4. To capture and assess key lessons learned from the project from various stakeholders including project staff, participants, civil society groups involved in the project, community leaders and other community members.
5. To assess the sustainability and impact of project achievements, including:
   1. Changes in participants’ social and economic agency and participation
   2. Shifts in community attitudes and behaviours
   3. Capacity built among local partners and stakeholders.
6. To produce a high-quality report, no longer than 30 pages, which will be shared with CAFOD, Misereor and implementing partners.

Deliverables and proposed deadlines:

• Develop a short inception report with proposed methodology, plans and tools for collecting data from stakeholders, for the final evaluation (1st and 2nd week of contract), to be discussed and agreed with CAFOD and partners.
• Gather data from relevant stakeholders (3rd and 4th week of contract)
• Submission of draft report (6th week of contract)
• Review and revision of report based on feedback (6th and 7th week of contract)
• Submission of final report (8th week of contract)
• Presentation of report to CAFOD and partners– date to be confirmed.

Methodology:

• The evaluation should adopt a participatory mixed-methods approach, beginning with a desk review before integrating quantitative and qualitative methods to ensure that data collected is triangulated and can be communicated, explained and contextualised.
• It is expected that the consultant will combine surveys/questionnaires with structured interviews, FGDs and KIIs. Note that to enable the open and unrestricted sharing of opinions and information, the data can be anonymised where relevant and appropriate.
• Evaluation team members are encouraged to use innovative methods to collect and analyse data. The qualitative component will allow for more in-depth data gathering to gain more insightful findings from relevant target groups regarding their experience of the project and its impact.
• Data is expected to be gathered from key project stakeholders, including:
  • Targeted participants (in vocational training, first aid training, and Local Leaders Committees).
• The midterm evaluation will be supported by two workshops: an initial developmental workshop in which the data collection methods will be discussed with CAFOD staff and representatives from partners to obtain feedback and input; and a feedback and validation workshop after submission of the draft report, to obtain input on findings and recommendations.
• The consultant(s) are expected to propose the most suitable method of sampling/randomisation and the sample size will be determined in collaboration with CAFOD and partners. Information shall be collected from across specified beneficiaries, partners and stakeholders.
• All data collected during the baseline study will be disaggregated by age, gender, disability, and location.

Ethical Considerations

The below ethical considerations will be adhered to during the midterm evaluation:

• The evaluation will be conducted by an independent and impartial external consultant.
• Quantitative data will be obtained from a randomly selected representative sample. 
• Participation in the study will be voluntary, and individuals must be able to curtail their participation in the study at any time. 
• The safety of participants and implementing partner staff will be paramount.
• Anonymity, confidentiality and safeguarding of study data (both during data collection and for data storage) will be guaranteed. 
• There will be no risks and benefits for individual participants.
• The culture, norms and traditions of study populations will be respected and laws of the country upheld.
• Participation in the evaluation will involve no additional security or safety risks for participants, in light of the current context in Afghanistan.
• The content of the evaluation will be treated confidentially and only shared with CAFOD, partners and Misereor.

Required Competencies:

• A minimum master’s degree in social sciences or relevant field;
• Other training/certifications in thematic areas relevant to the project will be an asset (livelihoods, gender, behavioural change communication etc.);
• Other professional training on Research Methodology, Development Evaluation, and Impact Evaluation from recognised institutes/universities would be an asset;
• A proven track record of an ability to pragmatically apply in-depth knowledge and experiences of issues and practices in the fields of humanitarian, livelihoods and gender in Afghanistan;
• Strong computer and analytical skills with ability to write and review technical documents/ reports, conduct interviews as part of background research.

Demonstrable Skills and Experience:

• Record of publication of social research documents, evaluation reports, survey reports, study reports on livelihoods and rights issues is a strong asset;
• Experience of carrying out mixed-methods studies and evaluations and in producing high quality analytical reports (at least 2 recent reports should be submitted with the RFP);
• Strong background of statistical data analysis skills and strong proficiency with data analysis packages (in Stata or SPSS);
• Member of professional societies/forums (e.g. evaluation society) will be an asset;
• At least 6 years’ experience managing evaluations, baselines and/or assessments for community-based programmes, including since August 2021;
• Experience in delivering high quality assessments, research or evaluations for institutionally funded projects such as FCDO/DFID, EU or USAID;
• Experience working with and/or evaluating the work of national NGOs and CSOs in Afghanistan;
• A gender-balanced team (at all levels) is highly desired;
• Ability to adapt plans and approaches, sometimes at short notice;
• Fluency in English essential; ability to conduct interviews in Dari and Pashto essential.

CAFOD is committed to creating a safe environment for all project participants, especially children, young people and vulnerable adults, and to prevent their physical, sexual or emotional abuse. The consultant will be expected to follow these commitments and sign and adhere to all relevant policies and procedures.

Interested candidates are requested to submit the following by 29 June 2025. Please see CAFOD website to email the documents requested below

• Updated CVs (lead consultant and associates if any)
• Technical proposal with proposed methodology and detailed work plan
• 2 examples of similar assessments, evaluations, research, analytical report writing in English
• Financial proposal: Up to a maximum of USD 14,000. This fee should include all consultancy costs, including data collection costs (travel, accommodation, food etc.) as well as all applicable VAT and Tax.

Submissions will be reviewed and scored according to a) the criteria and considerations listed in this Terms of Reference, b) the suitability of the project plan/method statement and c) value for money.

Management and Reporting Arrangements:

The recruitment and initial briefing to the consultant will be managed by CAFOD, in consultation with the project partners.

Both in-country implementing partners will provide logistical and administrative support and guidance, including supply of relevant documentation, and help with the organisation of meetings and interviews (the financial costs of this will be covered by the consultant). Additionally required costs such as refreshments for FGDs will be paid for by partners. The consultant will be responsible for working with partner staff to arrange interviews and field visits ensuring all relevant stakeholders are available at the place and time agreed; the consultant(s) will provide facilitation of workshops, FGDs, meetings and field visits.

Deliverables will be reviewed, appraised and accepted by members of CAFOD’s Afghanistan staff, in consultation with the relevant partner staff members. 

Summary Timeline (subject to change):

19 – 29 June

Circulation of TORs and Invitation to Submit Quotations

29 June

Closing date for applications

2 July – 3 July

Interviews with short-listed consultants

4 July

Final consultant selection and contract signing

5 July – 4 August

Planning, document review and fieldwork

14 August

Submission of draft report to CAFOD

15 - 23 August

Review, feedback and revision of report

31 August

Presentation of report findings and recommendations to CAFOD, partners, and Misereor.

The selection consultant(s) will be expected to fully agree to comply with all relevant CAFOD policies during the contracted period including the Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct, and provide references.

About STOPAIDS

STOPAIDS is a UK-based network with over 30 years of experience in the HIV response, and which also works more broadly across global health. We are part of a global movement aiming to address the systemic causes of health inequity, end AIDS, and ensure everyone can access their right to health and well-being. By providing decision-makers with both evidence and advocacy, we drive informed, just decisions that improve access to treatment, prevention, care, and support for HIV and other health conditions.

STOPAIDS is led by our values, including the meaningful participation of people living with and affected by HIV and an anti-oppression framework.

About the role

STOPAIDS mobilises civil society, parliamentarians, the public and the media to influence decision-makers in the UK and globally on the advocacy impact areas outlined in our 2022-2025 strategy.

In partnership with senior leadership, the Media and Communications Manager will oversee the design and implementation of STOPAIDS' organisational-wide media and communications strategy that amplifies STOPAIDS’ impact and reputation across our key advocacy areas. This work includes providing media and communications guidance, coordination and delivery support to our joint advocacy projects with partners.

Our joint advocacy projects are subject to change, but currently include the Digital Health and Rights Project, the UK Civil Society working group on the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria, the UK Civil Society working group for Unitaid and a new coalition to advocate on the future of the global health architecture.

The Media and Communications Manager will support STOPAIDS and our joint advocacy projects to achieve our advocacy objectives through identifying strategic media opportunities, managing relationships with media outlets, and securing external media coverage. They will also work with staff and partners to develop relevant high-quality media products and to develop and manage online communications content for our key social media and website platforms.

As a capable team leader, the Media and Communications Manager provides expert guidance to staff and partners, is comfortable coordinating and facilitating working groups and supports the leadership of people living with and affected by HIV. They also work with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure that media and communications strategies are aligned and complementary with other organisational strategies and priorities.

As with all STOPAIDS staff, and in partnership with the CEO and the Director for Development & Engagement, they will work to ensure the sustainability of the organisation by contributing 10% of their time to fundraising (to support with application and report writing) and other advocacy support.

The role has a six-month probation period.

We offer several key benefits, including:

• A 28-hour working week with no salary reduction, with options to spread the hours over 4 or 5 days
• Home-based working with monthly access to an office space, home-working grants, and bill contributions (as per HMRC guidelines)
• Flexible working hours
•  A 6% employer contribution to a group stakeholder pension scheme
•  Annual personal learning and development budgets
•  20 days’ annual leave, plus an additional day (up to 5) for each year of service (excluding bank holidays)

For further information and to apply, please click the 'redirect to recruiter' button to visit our website.

Closing date: 29th June 2025.

Interview date: 3rd July 2025.

People living with or affected by HIV, from Black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds or from other minoritised groups are particularly encouraged to apply.

STOPAIDS is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive positive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sex characteristics, HIV status, national origin, genetics, disability, or age. 

We are open to considering applications for a part-time role that would require a job share.

• Lead the delivery of an ambitious and creative media and campaign strategy to bring about an improved recognition of the value and impact of youth work.
• Lead on other campaign strategy and planning, utilising a range of campaign tactics integrating media, digital media and other campaign tactics, working closely with other members of the Comms team and across Directorates.
• Oversee campaign activity for the annual Youth Work Week, to ensure the campaign engages key opinion formers and provides an opportunity for those within the sector to celebrate the impactful work they do.
• Analyse campaign effectiveness, including setting and tracking metrics across digital and traditional media.
• Ensure campaign plans are fully scoped and uploaded to the online project management system.
• Leading on strategic approaches to celebrity supporters / ambassadors and ongoing relationship management.

• Lead proactive media monitoring, enabling timely responses to significant developments and tracking positions on issues relating to NYA’s work.
• Develop key messages and positioning statements on issues in the youth sector and NYA’s activities, role and stance and promote consistency of messaging across NYA’s channels.
• Managing and responding to reactive media enquiries, providing statement and reactive ‘lines to take’, with the support of the Head of Communications
• Producing engaging content for various channels and audiences including press releases, blogs, opinion pieces and media briefings to elevate NYA’s profile and demonstrate our expertise and thought leadership.
• Managing the media monitoring and media database, nurturing relationships with target journalists, as well as online news outlets and thought leaders on key strategic issues.
• Confidently working with charity and corporate partners to maximise opportunities to demonstrate the impact of their support.
• Provide line management and development support to two Communication Officers.

• A self-starter brimming with creative ideas and proven experience of designing and executing high-impact campaigns that bring about a measurable change in knowledge, behaviour and / or policy.
• Strong interpersonal skills for building effective relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders, including political audiences, and confident in growing new relationships and leading meetings.
• An ability to grasp complex information and distil key messages for different audiences and crucially, which tactics and channels to use to engage them
• Have proven experience and a strong understanding of the UK media landscape, with demonstrable experience of having nurtured relationships with national and sector journalists to garner high-quality coverage.
• An understanding of how to use research and intelligence gained from listening exercises and other stakeholder insights to inform campaign messaging and metrics.
• Be skilled in developing media strategics and developing case studies and using data to create compelling new hooks
• Be proficient in evaluating campaigns and media outputs, with the ability to derive insights that inform future strategies.
• Be proficient in drafting statements and media responses at speed and in line with key messages.
• Have outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce and edit content to a journalistic standard across diverse audiences and channels.
• Have an understanding of how to use social media platforms to engage audiences effectively, understanding their role in broader campaign strategies.
• Be experienced in line management and fostering the NYA culture of personal growth
• Excellent project management skills - able to keep track of all the moving parts to keep tasks on track and mitigate risks. Experience of using project management platform (or similar) would be an advantage.
• An understanding of data protection and safeguarding young people.
• A passion for using effective communications to promote youth work and celebrate the achievements of young people and youth workers.
• Highly competent in all Microsoft suite and ideally have experience of Google Drive and Sharepoint.

This is National Lottery funded role in a growing charity representing children and young people affected by the neuropsychiatric conditions PANS and PANDAS. 

The purpose of this role is to work closely with our established Youth Board to ensure that the voices of young people affected by PANS and PANDAS are heard, valued, and reflected in our work.

The successful applicant will support the Youth Board in identifying, developing, and delivering one or more youth-led projects that align with their priorities and lived experiences. 

See the job description and the recruitment pack attached for more informaton.