30 years of working with words
I’ve spent 30 years working in communications. I’ve been a journalist, the marketing manager of a music venue, and the communications and evaluation lead of a youth music charity. For 20 years, I’ve been a freelance communications consultant and copywriter. I’ve worked with the UK government, an international development agency, and many small charities and public sector organisations – particularly in music and arts for education, wellbeing and social justice. So I bring a wide range of experience to your work, and have written for many different audiences.
Specialist in persuasive writing and writing for change
What makes people pay attention? What makes them care? What moves them to act? I’ve been exploring these questions for more than 20 years. You could say I’m a little obsessed. My learning began through arts marketing training in my early career. I then found a community, training and mentors in creative writing and storytelling for business (thank you John Simmons, Dark Angels and 26). More recently, I’ve been reading, training and reflecting on the science of decision-making and behaviour change. I’m always looking for better ways to make words work, to create positive change in the world.
Deep listening and thinking
Great writing starts with listening. If I’m to tell your story, make your report an interesting read, help shape the words for your thought leadership article … I need to ask good questions, listen deeply, and reflect on what I’ve heard. I need to look beyond the obvious, and get to the essence of your unique messages and stories. Whether I’m writing or editing – this is what I love to do, and clients tell me it’s one of the things they value most.
Care, kindness and empathy
These are words that often come up in feedback from clients. I used to think these weren’t ‘business-like’ enough for me to mention them. But in fact, they shape everything I do. They are values and behaviours that are important to me, and to my clients.
Trustworthiness – clear prices, no surprises
I’m incredibly diligent and also transparent. That means no hidden fees, no vague estimates. I charge by the day or hour, and will give you a breakdown of how much time I *think* the work will take and how much it will cost. I’ll use my time wisely and update you as needed.
My rates are:
£375 per day / £50 per hour – for long-term or early-booking projects
£400 per day / £53.33 per hour – for short-term or short-notice projects
I tend to have availability three months ahead: but if you need something sooner, I will do my best to help.
Read my blog about freelance writing and communications rates – and how to get the best from your freelancer.