I like working freelance because the flexibility suits me - every new piece of work is an adventure. So far as its possible I work in an inclusive and collaborative way with local partners and agencies. When a number of bodies are involved in making a system work its important to ensure that they are all involved in its redevelopment and growth.
Its important to me that the work I do is about making services, policy and strategy more effective and better for the people experiencing the most harm related to substance use. I don't generally do things I can't commit to 100%. That's why sometimes the dog doesn't eat.
As someone who used to commission consultancy I know hiring a freelancer can sometimes feel difficult. Because of this, I feel its important that I'm clear about how I work and about the consulting relationship. These then are the commitments I'll make to you about any work we do together.
- I'll work for you with integrity and objectivity. This means I will use my expertise, knowledge and contacts to your benefit - and I'll always be honest with you, even if I think its not what you want to hear.
- I'll keep your information confidential - unless you want me to shout about it, in which case I can be very loud. I won't use information I get off you to help another client and I won't use information from another client to help you.
- I'll only take work on that I've got the capacity, resources and ability to deliver.
- The fee I quote will be the fee you pay. If you ask me to do additional work, I will be clear about the costs of this. The framework I use for calculating expenses will be transparent. The dog movies will always be free.
This is because -
- They vary from job to job - according to a range of factors I've explained inside
- I don't want to be kicked out of the Consultants Union - even though they hold all their conferences in Hemel Hempstead and I always end up stuck in an ice breaker with a man in a polyester suit who smells of baby sick and stale Paco Rabanne. Hello Barry.