Lead Researcher!
Introduction
Communomics CIC is seeking a skilled and motivated Lead Researcher to lead an 18-month research and development project focused on Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCAs) within Black and minoritised communities in London. This project aims to enhance understanding of ROSCAs’ role in financial inclusion and empower these communities through tailored solutions. The research findings will be instrumental in determining the best solution that improves savings practices, increases financial literacy, and facilitates access to credit. Additionally, the project will assess the potential for bridging ROSCAs with mainstream financial systems while addressing potential risks to their community trust and structure.
About Communomics cic
Communomics CIC is a mission-driven organisation dedicated to empowering Black and minoritised communities by improving access to financial tools and fostering economic inclusion. Our current project focuses on Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCAs), a longstanding, trusted financial mechanism in these communities. This 18-month research and development initiative will explore ROSCAs’ operations, potential for formalisation, and their integration into mainstream financial systems while preserving their community-driven ethos.
Project Overview
The goal of this research is to understand the landscape, dynamics, and potential of ROSCAs within Black and minoritised communities in London. Specifically, it seeks to:
Map and Analyse the ROSCA Ecosystem: Quantify ROSCA participation, identify demographics, and understand operational models.
Investigate Formalisation Opportunities: Explore the risks and challenges of integrating ROSCAs into formal financial systems.
Engage with Policymakers: Develop evidence-based recommendations for creating supportive frameworks for ROSCAs.
Focus on Key Boroughs: Conduct in-depth research in specific London Boroughs with a higher demographic / representation of people from Black and Minoritised communities (For example Lambeth and Southwark).
This work will be foundational in determining and designing the best solution to enhance ROSCA operations, improve financial literacy, and connect ROSCA participants with mainstream financial services. However, the research will also critically assess whether formalisation risks undermining the trust and community focus that underpin ROSCAs’ success.
Research Objectives
Understand the size of the ROSCA market, participant demographics, and demand for solutions.
Compare ROSCAs with other financial mechanisms, such as Credit Unions, to identify their strengths and limitations.
Investigate potential barriers and risks to introducing ROSCAs into the formal economy, including the impact on trust and community cohesion.
Engage with regulators and financial institutions to understand the requirements for formalising ROSCA operations.
Provide actionable insights and policy recommendations to inform advocacy and systemic change efforts.
Scope of Work
The research will be conducted in three phases:
Phase 1: Market Analysis
Map the scale and scope of ROSCAs in London, with a focus on Lambeth and Southwark.
Understand ROSCA structures, savings mobilisation, contribution disbursement, and risk management.
Identify the demographic profile of ROSCA participants and their financial behaviours.
Phase 2: Comparative and Feasibility Analysis
Compare ROSCAs with traditional financial instruments like Credit Unions.
Analyse the risks and challenges of integrating ROSCAs into the formal economy, including impacts on trust and community-driven principles.
Investigate the requirements for formalisation, including legal, technical, and cultural considerations.
Phase 3: Policy and Advocacy Framework
Develop policy recommendations for recognising ROSCAs as a legitimate financial tool.
Propose strategies for maintaining the community trust inherent in ROSCAs while enhancing their accessibility and scalability.
Create a roadmap for engaging stakeholders, including policymakers, financial institutions, and community leaders.
Overview of Support we need
We are keen that the work engages relevant stakeholders along the way, so while as an output we will be looking for a report that details the analyses undertaken at each stage along with conclusions and recommendations, we will also expect the consultant to have developed engagement and ultimately commitment from key partners.
Research and Design Support
We see this as a research and design project, but not one that has as a final output a theoretically sound model that looks good on paper but has not been tested, rather it must be a systemic action research project that develops and tests delivery options and clearly leads into a set up phase.
Work Specification – A detailed outline of the support that we need
Whilst individually each of these 3 phases of support will have a stand-alone value to the work of Communomics, collectively we expect them to form the basis of the business case to grant fund.
Key Deliverables
Research Plan: A detailed plan outlining methodologies, timelines, and milestones.
Stakeholder Engagement: A minimum of 20 interviews and 5 focus groups with ROSCA participants, community leaders, policymakers, and financial institutions.
Literature Review: A comprehensive review of existing studies on ROSCAs and comparative financial mechanisms.
Mapping Exercise: Visual and quantitative data on ROSCA participation in Lambeth, Southwark, and other London boroughs.
Final Report: A detailed report with findings, policy recommendations, and strategies for formalising ROSCAs while preserving their core values.
Executive Summary: A concise two-page summary for policymakers and stakeholders.
Skill & Experience Required
Essential:
Proven experience in financial inclusion research or related fields.
Strong understanding of contributory savings models and community-based financial systems.
Expertise in stakeholder engagement, particularly with marginalised communities.
Ability to produce high-quality, data-driven reports with actionable recommendations.
Desirable:
Experience working with Black and minoritised communities in London.
Knowledge of regulatory frameworks for financial services in the UK.
Familiarity with systemic change and advocacy strategies.
Strong networks with funders, policymakers, and community organisations.
Engagement Details
Duration: 18 months
Timeline: March 2025 to September 2026
Location: Primarily remote, with in-person engagements in London (particularly Lambeth and Southwark).
Budget
Proposals should include a detailed budget, covering:
Consultancy fees, including daily rates and total anticipated days.
Costs for stakeholder workshops and travel.
Technology or software required for research activities.
Miscellaneous expenses related to the project.
Proposal Requirement
Interested applicants should submit a proposal that includes:
An overview of your understanding of the research objectives and scope.
A detailed methodology for each phase of the project.
Examples of relevant experience and past projects.
CVs of key team members.
A high-level timeline and work plan.
A budget breakdown aligned with the scope of work.
Deadline and Submission:
Proposals should be submitted no later than 21st February 2025 to team@communimicscic.com. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.
Evaluation Criteria:
Demonstrated understanding of ROSCAs and financial inclusion challenges.
Quality and feasibility of the proposed methodology.
Relevant experience and expertise.
Value for money.
Contact Information
For any queries, please contact: team@communimicscic.com
We look forward to partnering with a talented researcher to drive this vital project forward.
Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 18 months
Pay: £32,443.23-£43,000.00 per year
Schedule: Monday to Friday
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Suite RA01, 64 Nile Street, London, N1 7SR
Reference ID: Lead Researcher –ROSCAs Research Project
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