Jasiri Program: Terms of Reference (ToRs) for Consultant Assessment on Status of Shelters in Kenya

Jasiri Program

Terms of Reference (ToRs) for Consultant Assessment on Status of Shelters in Kenya
1. Background
The Jasiri Consortium comprising Centre For Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW), Grassroots Organizations Operating Together in Sisterhood (GROOTS Kenya), Collaborative Center for Gender and Development (CCGD), Centre for Domestic Training and Development (CDTD) and Advocates for Social Change Kenya (ADSOCK) are jointly implementing the Jasiri Program for a period of 5 years (2023-2028).

Shelters play a critical role in offering safe spaces for these survivors, yet they are limited in number and often run by private individuals or civil society organizations, with few operated by government entities. Many shelters lack standard operating procedures and face significant resource constraints.
In line with the Consortium’s commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of these shelters, some of our key interventions will focus on advocacy for policy development and the establishment of a legal framework to support shelter operations and survivor services. An assessment of the status of shelters will be conducted, and a policy paper will be developed based on the findings. In this regard, we seek a consultant to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the status of shelters across 16 targeted counties in Kenya[ Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado, Nyeri, Meru, Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Samburu, Baringo, Busia, Kakamega, Bungoma, Tana River, Mandera, Garissa. ].

2. Purpose of the Assessment
The primary purpose of this assessment is to evaluate the operational status of shelters for survivors of GBV, focusing on:
Identifying the capacity and effectiveness of existing shelters;
Identifying the various registration bodies/agencies that register the shelters;
Assessing the quality of services provided to survivors to identify the existing gaps;
Understanding the challenges faced by these shelters;
Identifying the current needs to assist in development of SOPs for the shelters; and
Informing advocacy efforts for policy development and legal frameworks to enhance shelter operations.

3. Scope of Work
The consultant will be expected to:
Conduct a thorough assessment of shelters in the 16 targeted counties, focusing on their infrastructure, service delivery, registration and operational practices;
Engage with shelter staff, survivors, and relevant stakeholders to gather both qualitative and quantitative data;
Analyze existing documentation and reports related to the shelters and their operations;
Develop and implement a data collection methodology, including surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions;
Prepare a comprehensive report detailing findings, challenges, and actionable recommendations for each shelter assessed; and
Develop a draft policy on Gender Protection Centres (shelters).

4. Deliverables
The consultant will provide the following deliverables:
An inception report outlining the assessment methodology, tools, and timeline;
A detailed report assessing the current status of shelters across the targeted counties, including key findings related to infrastructure, service delivery, staffing, and client needs.
An analysis of existing policies related to shelter operations and survivor services, identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement.
A set of actionable recommendations for enhancing shelter operations, based on the assessment findings and best practices.
A draft policy paper outlining proposed policies and a legal framework to support shelter operations and survivor services, incorporating stakeholder feedback.
A finalized version of the policy paper, incorporating revisions based on feedback from stakeholders and project partners.
A final assessment report incorporating stakeholder feedback, including an executive summary, findings, challenges, and actionable recommendations and;
A presentation of key findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

5. Duration of Assignment
The assignment is expected to commence on 7th November 2024 and be completed by 25th November 2024.

6. Qualifications
The consultant should possess the following qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree in social work, public policy, law, gender studies, or a related field. A Master’s Degree will be an added advantage.
Proven experience in conducting assessments or evaluations focused on shelters, GBV, or social services;
Proven experience in conducting assessments or evaluations, particularly in the context of gender-based violence (GBV), shelter services, or social support systems.
Familiarity with the Kenyan context and experience working with local NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations.
Strong understanding of policy analysis and development, especially related to GBV, women’s rights, or social services.
Familiarity with the preparation of government documents, including policies and related frameworks.
Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.
Excellent analytical, communication, and report-writing skills; and
Ability to work independently and engage effectively with multiple stakeholders.