Call for Applications-Conduct the Lived Experience Research

Project Context and Scope

Survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking may choose to leave the UK and return to their country of origin for a variety of reasons. Some people wish to return home as soon as possible after being identified or leaving their situation of exploitation. Others may choose to return during or at the conclusion of the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) process. Regardless of the reason or method for their return, it is vital that they receive support throughout this process to help them return and reintegrate safely. Support throughout the process can lead to improved protection outcomes, including protection against the risk of being re-trafficked. UK support providers, including government and non-government organisations, play a key role in preparing survivors for return and assisting them to access reintegration services and other forms of support in their countries of origin. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding survivor experiences and outcomes following their return. 

This project seeks to increase the capacity of organisations to improve voluntary return and reintegration outcomes for survivors of modern slavery returning from the UK. One of its activities specifically aims to increase knowledge and understanding of survivor experiences of the return and reintegration process, including any challenges they have faced or barriers to access reintegration support, and best practices identified. A main activity of this project will be to conduct lived experience research with survivors and/or survivor-led organisations in key countries of return from the UK (Albania, Brazil, China, India, Pakistan and Romania). 

The IOM Country Office in Pakistan is seeking a local consultant to conduct lived experience research to understand the experiences of survivors who have returned from the UK to Pakistan. This will likely involve desk-based research to identify any existing research on the topic or a related topic and to identify survivor-led organisations and other organisations who may be able to support the research, for example by providing opportunities to conduct research with interested survivors. If such opportunities are identified, the research should also include interviews and/or focus group discussions with lived experience experts. A final report outlining research findings should be produced in English.

The target audience will be organisations and service providers in the UK and in Pakistan. The research should inform their work including recommendations on how the return and reintegration of survivors (with or without official status as survivors of trafficking) can be better supported.  Organizational Department / Unit to which the Consultant is contributing Migration Management Division -Improving Reintegration Outcomes for Survivors of Modern Slavery (PX0650)

  Tasks to be performed under this contract

• Attend an online training on how to conduct the lived experience research (provided by IOM)
• Conduct desk-based research to identify existing related research and to identify survivor-led organizations/ other organizations who may be able to facilitate research with survivors
• If survivors/ lived experience experts are identified who are willing and able to participate in the research, conduct interviews and/or focus group discussions (FGDs) closely following the interview guide and guidance provided by IOM on how to conduct the research in a trauma-informed manner which priorities participants’ agency, privacy and safety. Research participants should be renumerated appropriately (by IOM), and there should be a second person present during interviews/ FGDs (preferably IOM staff).
• Produce a research report in English which summarizes the existing literature; outlines key findings of the lived experiences research conducted (if any); explains key challenges and barriers to conducting the research (if any); and provides recommendations. 

  Category B Consultant hired to deliver a report on a three-instalment payment basis:

• First deliverable – Conduct desk-based research to identify existing related research and to identify survivor-led organisations/ other organisations who may be able to facilitate research with survivors
• Second deliverable – A draft report in English which summarises methodology and steps taking; outlines and analyses the existing literature; outlines key findings of the lived experiences research conducted (if any); explains key challenges and barriers to conducting the research (if any); and provides recommendations.
• Third deliverable – A final report based on feedback and suggestions received (there may be several rounds of feedback)

  Performance indicators for the evaluation of results

• Data collection completed in line with agreed methodology, ensuring gender sensitivity and ethical engagement with survivors.
• In dept interviews and FDGs conducted with key stakeholders and survivors.
• Draft report submitted within the specified timeline, meeting quality standards and incorporating analysis of lived experience with clear thematic findings
• Final report submitted on time, reflection feedback from IOM. 
• Adherence to IOM’s ethical guidelines and data protection, confidentiality and safeguarding when engaging with the survivors.
      Education
• Post graduate degree in social / political sciences or a related field. 
• Demonstrated expertise and experience (at least 5 years) in qualitative research (interviews and focus group discussion), preferably with vulnerable populations. 
• Demonstrated experience in the area of human trafficking and modern slavery, including survivor needs and support. Experience working with survivors preferred.
• Extensive understanding of trauma-informed research methods and safeguarding.
• Proven capacity and experience in providing consultancy services for IOM or other organizations. Skills
• Extensive understanding of trauma-informed research methods and safeguarding. Languages
• Fluency in English  IOM’s official languages are English, French and Spanish. Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.   Travel required
• Yes Required Competencies   IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.   Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these three values:
• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.