Terms of Reference:
Public Affairs Consultancy
Background
Tearfund has reduced Public Affairs capacity after a recent restructuring process across the organisation. Following the July 2024 General election the UK now has a Labour government for the first time in 14 years and there was an overhaul of many sitting MPs with the electoral swing.
Upon taking office the Labour Foreign Secretary David Lammy commissioned three FCDO reviews: Strategic Defence, Global Impact, and Development. The latter is being conducted by Baroness Minouche Shafik and is due to end by March 2025. It will examine the evidence and policies of the 2023 Conservative white paper on international development, before making its own recommendations on capacity and policy.
In order to help Tearfund engage with the new Labour Government, new cohort of MPs and the FCDO Development review, we are seeking consultancy services to examine Tearfund’s previous work and the current political landscape, as well as identify key advocacy targets and opportunities for influence. At the end of the contracted period we would like to have a list of evidenced recommendations on how Tearfund can continue and prioritise its Government relations work given its reduced capacity, as well as keep its approach coordinated across teams and thematic areas.
Tasks
- Research Tearfund’s prior and current engagement with HMG, to assess what has been successful and could be taken forward and what can be left behind. This can include campaigns, events and contacts, as well as relevant working groups/networks. If possible, this could also include analysis of work under the Conservative government (2010-2024) and the previous Labour government (1997-2010). This should also include discussions with current staff about their work, in order to assess where coordination can be improved.
- Research the perception/standing of Tearfund by external stakeholders including the FCDO, Labour Party etc.
- Map out the current political landscape including new Labour government priorities, FCDO priorities and Parliamentary make-up/trends. Focus particularly on areas relevant to international development, humanitarianism, climate, and faith.
- Gain understanding of the ongoing FCDO Development review and advise on opportunities to engage with it and wider policy work.
- Identify key advocacy targets in a priority ranked order, including missed opportunities for engagement/influencing.
- Produce a list of prioritised recommendations on continued Tearfund Government Relations.
The Consultant
To undertake this work, we are seeking a consultant who has:
- Significant experience working in government relations and on advocacy strategy
- Experience in working for/with HMG (preferably FCDO)
- Experience in working for/with the Labour Party
- Good relationships and networks with key stakeholders
Budget and Timeline
This work will take place from January to March 2025. The expected total budget is up to £12,000.
Submission Details
Please submit a bid explaining:
- Your relevant experience and expertise (max 2 pages).
- A breakdown of your costs.
Please send all bids to sam.perriman@tearfund.org by January 8th 2025.