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INTRODUCTION
This decision tree supports shelter and settlement (S&S) practitioners to make decisions on the use of cash for S&S outcomes. It builds on research conducted in 2023/2024 by the Global Shelter Cluster (GSC) available here on informing decisions on cash programming approaches. An associated annex of relevant links and guidance related to the criteria are available for further reading.
Audience and purpose
- Programme managers (those who may design and run S&S programmes) and associated programme staff making decisions about implementation options for delivery of assistance.
- Cash advisers who want to be informed of the key considerations when supporting shelter and settlements with cash assistance.
- The decision tree supports those trying to determine if delivering assistance through the modality of cash is feasible and appropriate.
Scope
- This decision tree is focused on the cash modality, not vouchers.
- At present, there are no equivalent Global Shelter Cluster (GSC) checklists or guidance documents outlining considerations for other implementation options (e.g. in-kind assistance). Readers are therefore cautioned against interpreting the criteria in this document as barriers to the use of cash.
- This is global guidance, it must be contextualised. Potentially some considerations will not be relevant to the context you are working within.
When to use the criteria shown in this decision tree
- Most shelter and settlement programming should commence with context and needs assessment.
- Reflect upon relevant response options (e.g. collective centre support, shelter repairs, rental assistance etc.) to determine a relevant ‘menu’ of assistance options. The use of the criteria should be included as part of an assessment when considering different implementation options for delivery.
- Consider the modality options for how the implementation options will be delivered. This may be part of participatory programme design which includes asking households their preference of modality of support. Follow the decision tree when thinking about how the assistance will be delivered.