Social and Development Studies
ESL undertakes a range of work within the social services portfolio. Our work on monitoring and evaluation of development projects, contracted research and studies is at the intersection of international development and conflict management, rural and economic development (including livelihoods, food security private sector development), disaster risk reduction, climate change and humanitarian assistance.
Here we undertake:
- Community participation plans
We provide comprehensive Community Participation Plans to ensure that local communities are meaningfully involved in projects that affect their lives. These plans are designed to promote transparency, foster collaboration, and ensure social inclusion, allowing communities to actively participate in decision-making processes. By integrating local perspectives into project planning and implementation, organizations can achieve outcomes that are sustainable, socially responsible, and widely supported.
- Resettlement Action Plans (RAP)
We provide professional Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) services to ensure that communities affected by development projects are treated fairly, compensated appropriately, and supported throughout the resettlement process. Our approach minimizes social disruption, safeguards livelihoods, and promotes sustainable community development.
We begin with a detailed social and economic assessment to determine how a project impacts local communities. This includes identifying households, community assets, and livelihoods at risk. By mapping vulnerabilities and potential challenges, we develop practical and equitable plans that comply with national regulations and international standards.
- Social Impact Assessments (SIA)
Social Impact Assessment services help organizations anticipate and manage the social effects of their projects, ensuring that community well-being, livelihoods, local culture, social networks, and access to essential services are carefully considered. These assessments allow for informed decision-making that minimizes risks while promoting positive outcomes for affected populations.
Through in-depth studies, our team evaluates social, economic, and cultural dynamics within project areas. Vulnerable groups are identified, potential disruptions to livelihoods are assessed, and community structures are mapped to provide a complete understanding of social risks.
- Climate Change and Disaster Risk Assessment
Understanding and addressing the impacts of climate change is critical for the resilience of communities, industries, and ecosystems. Climate change and disaster risk assessment services are designed to help organizations identify vulnerabilities, anticipate potential hazards, and implement strategies to minimize environmental, social, and economic impacts.
Our experts conduct thorough assessments to evaluate the risks posed by climate-related events, including floods, droughts, storms, and other natural hazards. Using advanced modeling and data analysis, we identify areas of high vulnerability and potential exposure, helping clients make informed decisions that safeguard both people and assets.
- Various Socioeconomic Surveys (base, mid and end line)
Baseline, midline, and endline surveys form a comprehensive approach to understanding community conditions and measuring the impact of development projects. Baseline surveys establish a clear picture of local demographics, livelihoods, income levels, education, health, and access to services before a project begins, providing a reference point for all future assessments.
Midline surveys track progress during project implementation, evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, identifying emerging challenges, and providing actionable insights that allow strategies to be adjusted for optimal impact. Endline surveys are conducted after project completion to measure overall outcomes, assess changes in socioeconomic indicators, gauge community satisfaction, and provide evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and future initiatives.
Through these surveys, Earthcare Services Limited enables organizations to make data-driven decisions, accurately measure social and economic impacts, strengthen community engagement, and ensure that development interventions achieve meaningful and lasting results.
- Project Monitoring and Evaluation
Project Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) ensures that development initiatives are implemented effectively and achieve their intended results. It involves continuously tracking project activities, outputs, and resources to stay on schedule, manage risks, and meet objectives, while evaluating overall effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability.
Earthcare Services Limited conducts comprehensive M&E by collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data, reviewing progress against key indicators, and integrating feedback from stakeholders, including community members and partners. This approach provides actionable insights, supports informed decision-making, optimizes resources, enhances accountability, and ensures that projects deliver meaningful, long-term impact.
- Institutional/ Capacity building
Institutional and capacity building strengthens the skills, systems, and structures of organizations and communities to enhance their ability to plan, implement, and sustain development initiatives. Earthcare Services Limited delivers tailored programs including training workshops, technical support, policy development, and organizational strengthening to address gaps and improve performance. By empowering personnel and enhancing governance, these services help organizations operate efficiently, respond effectively to challenges, and achieve long-term, sustainable social, economic, and environmental outcomes.