The Social Policy Research Institute (SPRI Global) is currently supporting UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, in collaboration with the Government of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), in conducting a review aimed at reforming BVI’s social assistance programming, and disbursement of community development grants to individuals and Non-Profit Organisations. The review aims to increase harmonization, coordination and transparency of the relevant policy and governance frameworks, and strengthening their effectiveness.

To assess these challenges faced by the current system and practices and to formulate alternatives to the current organisation and procedures, the assignment foresees the following activities:

1. Review the current design of social assistance benefits administered by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, the Social Development Department, and other governmental entities;
2. Consolidate and rationalize targeting categories and benefits in order to enhance their effectiveness in the context of social protection reform in the Virgin Islands; and
3. Develop a governance framework that would enhance the objectivity, efficiency, and consistency in approach in the management and delivery of Government-funded grants for community-based initiatives.
4. Provide legislative drafting instructions to guide the formulation of primary or subsidiary legislation.