Partnerships with local authorities and community organisations (NGOs/VCSE)
This criterion assesses formal partnerships with local authorities and community organisations, embodying the principle of Taʿāwun (cooperation). Such collaborations are vital for Islamic excellence as they amplify community impact, avoid duplicated efforts, and ensure beneficiaries receive comprehensive, integrated support. Partnerships must uphold safeguarding, data protection, and equality duties to ensure cooperation remains within birr (righteousness). The approach applies Sadd al-dharā’iʿ (blocking means to harm) via due diligence and risk controls, and treats beneficiary data and safety as amānah (trust).
| Metric | Partnership effectiveness index |
|---|---|
| Target | Index ≥4/5; Active Partner defined as MOU + ≥1 joint activity/quarter. |
| Frequency | Quarterly |
| Method | Weighted composite score: 25% Documentation (MOU, DSA Art.26/28, Due Diligence); 25% Delivery (SLA compliance, Activity volume); 25% Compliance (Safeguarding checks, Data security); 25% Outcomes (Joint impact data, Partner satisfaction). |
| Unit | Index (1–5) |
Level 1: Initial/Ad-hoc
Partnerships are non-existent or limited to informal, ad-hoc interactions. No defined approach to collaboration or due diligence.
Level 2: Developing
Some informal partnerships exist. Awareness of Taʿāwun is present, but due diligence and data controls are ad hoc.
Level 3: Established
Formal MOUs for specific projects; Shariah due diligence completed; data roles determined (Art.26/28) with basic agreements; safeguarding contacts identified; reviews occur at project milestones.
Level 4: Advanced
Strategic partnership approach with clear policy. Partners selected for Maslahah. Quarterly reviews; full GDPR compliance (Art.6/9/26/28 + DPIA); joint safeguarding protocol with safer recruitment and info-sharing thresholds; CC9 boundaries in MOUs; equality standards applied.
Level 5: Optimizing
Leader in collaborative ecosystems. Partnerships drive innovation and systems-level improvement. External recognition (e.g., chairing forums, awards); mentors partners; publishes joint protocols; demonstrates measurable reduction in duplication/harm.
Organisation Types
By Organisation Size
| Size | Applicability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Micro | exempt | Disproportionate; informal community links suffice without the need for formal MOUs, due diligence logs, or minimum partner quotas. |
| Small | partial | Scaled down; formal MOUs and documented due diligence are only expected if sharing significant funds, running joint high-risk projects, or sharing personal data. |
| Medium | full | |
| Large | full | |
| Major | full |
Applicable When
- The organization engages in community outreach or support programs.
- The organization aims to expand its reach and impact within the local community.
- Local statutory partners may include local authorities, NHS ICB/PCNs, housing associations, police, schools/colleges.
Not Applicable When
- The organization does not engage in any community-facing activities.
- The organization operates primarily outside of a local community context (e.g., international aid with no local partnerships).
- In very rural/low-density areas where ≥2 local partners are not available, demonstrate proportional engagement.
Related Criteria
Discussion (1)
📋 **Version updated: 1.0.0 → 2.9.7** **Changes:** Updated islamic_references from mizan-297.json
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