This site has been set up to promote networking and raise the profile of independent consultants, interim managers and freelancers working within the NHS.

No such network currently exists. We think there will be significant benefits for independent consultants, interim managers and freelancers who work in the NHS through setting one up - see the list below for some of our idea

The web site is under development at this stage (3rd May 2009) - none of the buttons on the left have links yet! But don't let that put you off - we are looking for what people want - see the list below for some suggestions. If you have any more then why not email info@chimen.org

We are hoping to build a network of like minded people who work in the NHS, who may be willing to meet up occasionally to share ideas and expand their businesses, keep up to date with developments and maybe partner business ventures.

As the network takes off we have many ideas that may be of use to the people out there. Those who may feel rather lonely in the big, wide, wonderful world  that is NHS Independent Consulting or NHS Interim Management, or NHS freelancing of whatever kind - help is at hand! We would love to hear from you if you are in this field and have ideas that would enable you to be more successful through networking

Examples where we can help each other include:-

• Advice on rates
• Keeping up to date on policy guidance
• Training events - are here any trainers out there that would like to make us aware of what you can offer? Would you like to develop training with other independent trainers?
• On-line presentations: Maybe you can offer presentations which we can publish on the web site to increase your profile. Why not offer to sell your presentations (with added speaker notes) - or offer to speak to NHS managers
• Offering yourself up as a speaker at events
• Maximising your income through tax planning
• Independently contracting - IR35 coverage in your contracts, other requirements of contracting direct
• Meeting colleagues through network events
• Obtaining your next contract
• Partnering with others on projects
• Selling services through the web site
• Setting up web sites
• Advertising your web site (for free) through links to this web site
• Are you thinking of becoming independent in the NHS, but are wary of the pitfalls? All the answers to questions you never thought to ask.
• Would you like the web site to hold a database of registered members which could be searched by prospective recruiters
• Advising on CVs
• Obtaining referees
• Sharing membership surveys
• Sharing ideas...