Evaluation Brief:
External Evaluator for Mayo North East - Erris Workability Programme

1. Introduction

Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company Limited (MNE) is seeking an experienced external evaluator to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the MNE Erris Workability Programme. This programme aims to empower people with disabilities in the Erris region towards employment through skills development, collaboration with stakeholders, and promoting social inclusion.

2. Programme Overview

• Title: Iorras Cumasach – Erris Workability [Erris Workability: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme – Mayo North East Leader]
• Duration: January 2024 - December 2028 (Erris Workability was launched in July 2024)
• Target Group: 150 people with disabilities in the Erris region
• Objectives:
  • Improve employment prospects for people with disabilities.
  • Facilitate new partnerships among stakeholders to provide innovative employment supports.

3. Evaluation Objectives

The evaluation aims to:

• Assess the effectiveness and impact of the programme in achieving its objectives.
• Identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
• Provide recommendations for the future of the Erris Workability programme, in terms of development and sustainability.

4. Scope of Work (July 2024 to November 2025)

The external evaluator will be responsible for:

• Developing an Evaluation Framework: Design a comprehensive evaluation framework that includes both qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Data Collection: Collect data through surveys, interviews, focus groups, and document reviews.
• Data Analysis: Analyse data to assess programme outcomes, including employment rates, skills development, employer engagement, and stakeholder collaboration. (Large portion of data available from MNE)
• Reporting: Prepare a detailed evaluation report that includes findings, analysis, and recommendations. (See Appendix – Draft Table of Contents)

5. Key Evaluation Questions

• Participant Outcomes:
  • How many participants secured full-time and part-time employment?
  • What practical skills did participants develop through the programme?
  • How did the programme impact participants' soft skills and confidence?
• Employer Engagement:
  • How many employers participated in the programme?
  • What changes in employer practices were observed as a result of the programme?
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
  • How many new partnerships were established?
  • What was the impact of community-based networking events?
• Challenges and Limitations:
  • What challenges were encountered in programme implementation?
  • How were these challenges addressed?

6. Deliverables

• Inception Report: Outline the evaluation plan, methodology, and timeline.
• Interim Reports: Provide progress updates and preliminary findings.
• Final Evaluation Report: A comprehensive report that includes an executive summary, area profile, findings and analysis, challenges and limitations, and recommendations.
• Presentation: Present the evaluation findings to MNE and key stakeholders.

7. Timeline

• Proposal Submission Deadline: [12 noon, Friday 4 July 2025]
• Evaluation Start Date: [18 July 2025]
• Draft Report Submission: [5 September 2025]
• Final Report Submission: [12 December 2025]
• Presentation of Findings: [January 2026]

8. Qualifications and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience in conducting evaluations of similar programmes.
• Strong knowledge of employment and disability inclusion programmes.
• Excellent data collection and analysis skills.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

9. Submission Requirements

Interested candidates should submit:

• A detailed proposal outlining their approach to the evaluation, including methodology and timeline.
• CVs of the evaluation team members.
• Examples of previous evaluation reports.
• A budget breakdown for the evaluation.

10. Contact Information

For further information or to submit a proposal, please contact:

• Name: Rosemarie Mangan (Bainisteoir – Programme Leader)
• Email: rosemariemangan@mayonortheastldc.com
• Phone: 087 499 6606 (téacs amháin le do thoil – text message only please)