Framework is open to receiving applications from potential new members due to a reduction in our present numbers and geographical spread.
We are a long-established network of self-employed consultants and trainers working with organisations in the public and voluntary sectors including government, local authorities, health bodies, voluntary organisations, enterprise companies, sports, arts and community groups.
We are a strongly value-led organisation, committed to translating equality of opportunity and social justice into practice through our work with clients.
Although we share work with each other, we each live and work in different parts of the UK.
Profile
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We look for people who can complement what we are already doing, challenge our existing practices in a constructive manner, and also contribute to the strong sense of a team and network which we have created. Members are encouraged to bring their own styles to the overall team.
Framework members devote time and energy to supporting each other in person, by phone and by email. We consider it essential to make provision for our own professional development. We meet residentially twice each year to explore our development as a network and to share professional issues. One of these residentials is extended into a social weekend attended by most of our partners/children. We work hard to establish a high level of trust between ourselves so that our relationships are honest, direct, respectful and trusting. We look for a commitment to join this process from new members.
Our present membership includes four women and one man, all white European. We are open to applications from individuals, groups or networks who would like to join Framework. We recognise that at present we do not adequately reflect the structure of our local communities. We are open to discussion as to how we can become more diverse. We are open to applications from people wishing to work full- or part-time.
Essential
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- Commitment to the principles and values which Framework promotes
- Able to work from integrity at all times
- Skilled communicator able to analyse, reflect, negotiate, write, plan and think strategically
- Have a credible professional background with strong experience in an area of public and/or voluntary sector work
- Able to work on your own for long periods of time, probably from home
- Prepared to co-work with other Framework members on suitable contracts
- Willingness to share practice, knowledge and skills with other members
- Willingness to take part in regular supervision with another member
- Willingness to attend two network residential events each year
- Minimum hardware requirements include PC or Applemac, fax, email
Desirable
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- Previous experience of working as a consultant and/or trainer
- Already have contacts to establish your own client list
- Computer literate (members currently use Macintosh computers with Internet links)
- An intention of working with us for at least 3 years (after the initial period of mutual exploration as to whether we find it a beneficial relationship)
- A willingness to travel away from home for some assignments
Relevant information
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Framework currently charges fees of between 350 and 450 per day. We expect to spend up to 20 days per year on professional development. (This includes the days mentioned above for residentials and supervision.) Members choose how many days to work each week/month depending on their other commitments. It is doubtful whether membership of Framework is compatible with salaried employment for another organisation.
Framework members generate their own work. We seek to co-work where this is possible, and pass work between ourselves, however there is no one person responsible for marketing or securing contracts.
New Framework members pay a 'joining fee' of 500 which is added to the funds used to support joint activities such as the residentials. All other network costs are shared. Members are self-employed and contract, invoice, bank and account for their own individual work. Each member provides their own office equipment, car, etc.
The process of joining involves initial discussions and a letter of application. If this stage is passed to the satisfaction of both parties, then references will be taken up and you will be invited to part of a residential to meet existing Framework members and to make a presentation. If this stage is successful too, there will be a period of time in which we all seek to ensure that the arrangement is fruitful.
Existing Framework members live in Bristol, Leicester, Leeds, Rochdale, Cumbria and Glasgow.
PROCESS FOR JOINING
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1. We approach people, or they approach us.
2. They are asked to write a letter of application including
- past experience
- motive for joining
- expectations of Framework
- the contribution they anticipate making to Framework
- names of two referees
3. Depending on what emerges and the timescales involved, we then circulate this information and look at invitations to a residential or other meeting.
