Food Security and Livelihoods Assessments: A Practical Guide for Field Workers

This practical guide is intended to be used by food security and livelihood project managers responsible for undertaking rapid and in-depth assessments in emergency, recovery and crisis contexts.  Assessments are carried out during various stages of programmes to support decision-making, inform the development of strategies, monitor and evaluate activities and to support transition and exit strategies. Action Against Hunger / ACF International suggest that an assessment should try answering key questions, such as: ‘Which groups are at risk? Where? When? Why?; What types of risks do these groups face?; What type of response is required to assist these groups?’

The guide comprises seven chapters, which include information on developing a conceptual framework; gathering information; sampling and conducting assessment planning; identifying the core components of a food security and livelihood assessment; analysing results; identifying solutions; and disseminating information. A useful appendix provides over 150 pages of sample question guides, questionnaires and a variety of tools. Throughout the chapters gender issues are considered in relation to gathering accurate information. Issues for project managers to consider include:

• Individuals’ nutritional status and food allocation priorities based on gender, age, health and working status need assessing. In particular it is vital to be aware of restrictions on food availability with regard to pregnant/ lactating women and young children
• The ways in which conflict affects men and women’s' abilities to maintain and harvest their crops