As of 12 June, the helpdesk will open to the Syria earthquake response too, in addition to that of Türkiye.
What it is
As part of its member support CHS Alliance is running a pilot helpdesk to support its members applying the Core Humanitarian Standard in the Türkiye and Syria earthquakes response.
This support is made possible thanks to support received from the H2H Network, via DEC and FCDO.
The helpdesk aims to allow CHS Alliance members to access guidance, advice and coaching on how to better implement the CHS in real time.
CHS Alliance members active on the ground either directly or through partners can benefit from up to two hours time (per country of response) with a CHS specialist to get advice on applying their CHS commitments.
For whom
The helpdesk is for CHS Alliance member organisations only. CHS Alliance member organisations are welcome to address issues raised by their implementing partners.
CHS Alliance member organisations need to have their country office nominate a maximum of two staff members each (for instance, one M&E, one PSEAH person) to contact the helpdesk. It can also be head office staff members.
Scope
Issues can refer to challenges that require advice on how to move forward. For instance: how to respond to a complaint ; reviewing a policy; questions on participation mechanisms and inclusivity; looking for guidance or resources; or simply getting perspective on the work you are doing.
Topics should be related to the Core Humanitarian Standard, such as: accountability for affected people and community engagement; complaints and feedback mechanisms and responding to complaints; protection from sexual abuse, exploitation, abuse and harrassment (PSEAH); Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) in relation to the CHS.
How to contact the helpdesk
The helpdesk is operating in English and in Arabic.
To contact the helpdesk, write to helpdesk@chsalliance.org
When sending the email, indicate the name of your organisation as well as your role, what the request is about and what outcome you would like from the support. Please do not provide any confidential or sensitive information.
Response
Once we receive your email, you will receive a response within 2-3 working days, and if needed, an invitation for a more in-depth discussion via Zoom or Teams.
If we believe the request is beyond the scope of the helpdesk and/or the available time, we will suggest alternatives, including possible consultants that can assist you or other helpdesks.
Please note that we track the type of queries received in order to analyse trends and identify needs for future resources development in line with the CHS. We will also assess, through this pilot experience, the applicability for future emergency situations.
We will send a satisfaction survey to our members at the end of this pilot.
Time period
The helpdesk started on 22 May and runs until 22 July 2023. We will not be able to answer queries after the end of this pilot.
Questions
You can direct question on the functioning of the helpdesk to genevieve@chsalliance.org
Additional information
If you are unsure whether your organisation is a member of CHS Alliance, please check our Member Directory.
Please be aware that joining CHS Alliance takes time and so organisations not currently member will not be able to benefit from this pilot. CHS Alliance members benefit from a range of services and support beyond this helpdesk.
For information about the benefits of being a CHS Alliance member and how to join, see our Join Us page.