Tender | Mid-Point Evaluation of EPIC Strategic Plan 2022–2027
1. Introduction
EPIC Empowering People in Care invites proposals from qualified consultants or organisations to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the progress made under its 2022–2027 Strategic Plan. The evaluation will assess the achievements of the plan to date. With a view to the remaining period of the strategy, review the social, political and economic environment that we will be operating in for the remainder up to 2027. Reflecting on this updated analysis, identify gaps, and provide actionable recommendations to enhance impact and accountability.
2. Background
EPIC Empowering People in Care exists because some children and young people need extra help or support arising from their experiences in care. We are independent, with a clear purpose and mandate – to advocate for the rights of care-experienced children and young people.
Our team works with children in care, young care leavers, and anyone with experience of the care system up to the age of 26. EPIC works to ensure that their voices are represented and considered in decisions that affect their lives, and that their experiences inform policy and practice. We also create safe spaces for children and young people to come together to work on projects that are important to them.
All of EPIC’s work is grounded in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly Article 12, which provides for the right to be heard and to participate in decision making. EPIC’s Strategic Plan (2022–2027) was developed through inclusive engagement with staff, the Youth Council, the Board, and external stakeholders. It outlines EPIC’s commitment to children and young people in care, emphasizing governance, partnership, and advocacy.
3. Objectives of the Evaluation
The evaluation aims to:
- Assess progress against strategic goals and KPIs.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of implementation strategies.
- Identify strengths, challenges, and areas for improvement.
- Provide recommendations for the remaining strategic period.
4. Scope of Work
The evaluator will:
- Review strategic documents and progress reports.
- Conduct interviews/focus groups with stakeholders (staff, Youth Council, partners).
- Analyse quantitative and qualitative data.
- Benchmark EPIC’s progress against sector standards.
- Deliver a final evaluation report with recommendations.
5. Deliverables
- Inception report with methodology and work plan.
- Interim findings presentation.
- Final evaluation report.
- Executive summary and stakeholder briefing.
6. Evaluation Criteria for Bidders
- Demonstrated experience in strategic evaluations, especially in youth advocacy or care sectors.
- Understanding of EPIC’s mission and strategic context.
- Proposed methodology and stakeholder engagement approach.
- Cost-effectiveness and value for money.
- Timeline and capacity to deliver.
7. Timeline
- Tender release: 15th September 2025
- Submission deadline: 17th October 2025
8. Budget
- Bidders should provide a detailed financial proposal, including fees, travel, and other costs.
9. Submission Requirements
- Cover letter and company profile.
- CV’s of key personnel.
- Technical proposal (methodology, timeline).
- Financial proposal.
- References and examples of similar work.
10. Contact Information
Please send your submission to: strategy@epiconline.ie