We provide specialist programme management, research and monitoring and evaluation services.

We design and deliver programmes which create a lasting positive impact in the societies and communities we work with and for.

We work with partners to achieve sustainable impact in gender equality and social inclusion and to advance policies, laws, social norms and institutions that work for everyone.

SDDirect provides high-quality, innovative social development expertise to civil society, the private sector, multilateral institutions and governments.

Leading global provider of innovative gender equality and social inclusion consultancy and research

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Latest from SDDirect

Evidence digest focus issue: Disability inclusion in conflict & humanitarian response

Social Development Direct (SDDirect) Capability Statement on Disability Inclusion – March 2025

Information about people with disabilities and inclusive urban development and infrastructure

Evidence digest focus issue: Education and Disability Inclusion

Data on access to higher education for students with disabilities in Africa, South and South-East Asia and MENA regions

This report reviews available data on access to higher education for students with disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa, South and South-East Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It looks at how many students with disabilities are enrolled in higher education, how many are women…

Informal economy women workers on the frontline of the climate crisis

This study explores how self-employed women in India’s informal economy are experiencing and responding to climate change. Conducted across Delhi, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh, it focuses on eight worker groups based in rural, urban and tribal areas. Co-produced by SDDirect and SEWA…

Collecting disability disaggregated data using Washington Group standards

This presentation by Dr Lorraine Wapling explains how to collect better disability data using the Washington Group questions. It covers why good data matters, especially for children, and how poor methods can lead to undercounting. The module shares practical tips on using the questions effectively…

Evidence review on deinstitutionalisation of children with disabilities

This report reviews global evidence on the deinstitutionalisation of children with disabilities. It explores which organisations are active in this area, the barriers to family-based care, and where reforms have been successfully implemented. The report highlights examples of inclusive care reforms…

Supporting Companies to Develop and Manage Community-Based Grievance and Feedback Mechanisms Regarding Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment

SDDirect was contracted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to support companies to better manage the risk of SEAH in their operations. A company self-assessment tool previously developed by SDDirect with IFC in 2021 was piloted with a small number of companies alongside the development…

Child safeguarding in emergencies guidance series

This series of tip sheets that have been designed to help civil society organisations (CSOs) implement child safeguarding practices in emergency contexts. It is a three-part series helping CSOs to focus on: Understanding safeguarding risk (part 1) Preventing child…

What’s next for safeguarding against SEAH? – The importance of civil society organisations' engagement in shaping sustainable solutions: A Conference for CSOs

This online conference was arranged by RSH to inspire reflection, foster collaboration, and set the stage for continued advocacy in advancing the PSEAH (Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Sexual Harassment) agenda. It brought together civil society organisations (CSOs), thought leaders…

Pocket guide: Safeguarding people with disabilities in civil society organisation (CSO) programmes in Bangladesh

This pocket guide has been developed to support CSOs in Bangladesh to safeguard people with disabilities. It is a contextualised version of a global guidance note on disability-inclusive safeguarding practices. The guide may be useful for all staff, especially those working in programmes,…

Assessing and managing SEAH risks while working in informal camp settlements in Pakistan

This how-to note provides a comprehensive guide on assessing and managing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Sexual Harassment (SEAH) risks in informal camp settings in Pakistan during humanitarian and emergency response. SEAH risks are often higher in informal camps than in formal ones due to the lack…

Why it’s crucial that we integrate children in our CAPSEAH work

Building safe and equal futures: Launching SDDirect’s Equal Education & Child Protection Portfolio

Danielle Cornish-Spencer, Head of Portfolio for Equal Education & Child Protection at SDDirect, brings over 20 years’ expertise in gender equality, disability inclusion, and social justice. A passionate advocate for safe and inclusive education, she leads transformative…

Eight reasons why endorsing CAPSEAH should be on your 2025 safeguarding bucket list!

Reflections on CoP 26 and the opportunities for women in the voluntary carbon markets

By Sue Phillips Sue Phillips reflects on the opportunities presented by voluntary carbon markets to empower women and promote gender equality. From COP26 agreements to gender-focused initiatives, this blog discusses how climate finance can drive inclusive projects and amplify women's roles in…

Putting gender equality and social inclusion at the heart of climate justice

By Rebekah Martin Rebekah Martin delves into the intersection of climate action, gender equality, and social inclusion, emphasizing the importance of inclusive policies at COP26. Discover how climate processes can better address the needs of marginalised groups, contributing to equitable outcomes…

Why financing for loss and damage must be discussed at COP26

By Adessou Kossivi Explore the pressing need for dedicated financing to address loss and damage caused by climate-induced hazards. This blog by Adessou Kossivi from Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR) highlights the disproportionate impact on…

From Beijing and beyond: Now is the time to accelerate our commitment to feminist principles in humanitarian action

We must remember that feminist principles and approaches are not mere theory. They include practical strategies for shaping more effective and just humanitarian responses. At the heart of this work is leadership of affected communities, especially leadership that is by women, for…