Needs Assessment Consultant

Helem is the first LGBTQIA+ rights organization in the Arab world, officially established in Beirut, Lebanon in 2001. Its mission is to lead the struggle for the liberation of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Intersex, Transgendered, Queer (LGBTQIA+), and other people with non-conforming sexualities and/or gender identities in Lebanon and the SWANA region from all sorts of violations of their individual and collective civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Our goal is to empower young LGBTQIA+ leaders to advocate for their own liberation. We seek to create initiatives and spaces where our communities can leverage unity through diversity and build power. We protect and support individuals with the resources to resist the harm caused by homophobia and transphobia. We empower our youth through education and community building and mobilize to change the laws, policies, and practices that deny us equality and reduce our quality of life.

Following the war and its implications on the LGBTQIA+ community in Lebanon, and the need for available and accessible safe services for community members, Helem is seeking to recruit a consultant to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment. The purpose of this assessment is to identify needs, priorities, gaps in services, and actionable recommendations to reinforce the inclusivity and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community in Lebanon. This will inform the development of tailored programs, services, and policies aimed at supporting their rights and well-being.

Scope of work: 

Under the guidance of the Executive Director and in close collaboration with Helem staff members, the consultant is expected to:

Literature review:

• Reviewing current and relevant research and available reports on the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community in Lebanon. 

Data collection: 

• Identify relevant stakeholders to collect data including community members, service provides, LGBTQIA+ organizations and others, 
• Design relevant data collection tools including surveys, interviews, FGDs and others to collect data. 

Data Analysis: 

• Compile a comprehensive report that includes the identified specific needs of the LGBTQIA+ community in Lebanon. 
• Assess the inclusivity, accessibility and efficiency of available services for the LGBTQIA+ community in Lebanon. 
• Assess the gaps in service provision for LGBTQIA+ community. 
• Policy and programmatic recommendations. 

The consultant is expected to engage in stakeholders consultation to gather input, ensure representation and verify findings. 

Deliverables: Due date of each deliverable will be agreed upon with the consultant

1. Inception Report detailing methodology, timeline and workplan
2. Preliminary findings report 
3. Final needs assessment report after stakeholder consultation. 
4. Presentation of final report.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven expertise in LGBTQIA+ issues, rights, and community engagement.
• Experience conducting needs assessments, particularly within marginalized communities.
• Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills.
• Familiarity with the local legal and social context of LGBTQIA+ issues.
• Experience in data analysis and report writing.
• Sensitivity and knowledge of the cultural nuances and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.