How we work

Sustainability is an urgent challenge but we‘re optimistic it can be achieved and aspire to work with and enable others to make changes that contribute to this goal. The way we approach the work we do is intimately connected to our values and co-operative principles.

Making a start: The key to bringing about positive change is to be aware of the issues that you/your organisation is facing, be clear about what you want to achieve, and to have the right people on board to deliver that change. By having an all-round view of sustainable development, together with a range of specialist skills, we can help with this journey.

Giving you what you need: Our services are highly flexible and adaptable as we know that no two enterprises are the same. Some simply require a helping hand whilst others need more dedicated assistance. We view every project with equal importance, whatever the size. If we think all you need is a nudge in the right direction then we will tell you so, even if this means the project is short lived. We also look carefully at the balance of resources available and think creatively about how to deliver projects at the least financial cost to you – this helps us to reach more people and better achieve our goals. Our fees are structured to match our clients and enable us to offer real value for money, whilst also helping enterprises that might otherwise not be able to access help.

Values and principles: Our values and co-operative principles shape who we are and how we work:

• Working in partnership is central to our business and relationships with clients and 'Associates'. Strong communication and understanding of culture and practices helps make sure the most effective solutions are adopted and last well into the future.
• We willingly share knowledge and experience, providing the tools for others to carry forward change themselves.
• We keep an open mind about the best ways forward and attach considerable importance to respecting the views of others. This doesn’t mean we won’t challenge when it’s necessary.
• Each project we do and person we meet shapes our thinking and means we keep on learning. We stay in touch with developments in this dynamic area and are always looking to refine our skills. Feedback from clients on our work, and its ongoing impact, is vital to this process.
• Environmental and ethical impacts as part of business and home are kept in check (see our sustainability policy). For example, our business carbon footprint is less than 1.5 tonne per year, 93% business miles are by public transport or bicycle and the few items we buy are purchased using ethical guidelines.
• Our desire is to make a difference so we are not interested in change for change’s sake - sustainability is at the core of everything we do. 20% of our time is given voluntarily and a proportion of business profits given to causes that we value (this year we supported workshops with a green theme at Celebrate, a Manchester community festival).