Invitation to Provide Services
Group Facilitation & Mentoring Associates (Self-Employed)
Farming for Sustainability Scheme – Knowledge (2025–2030)
Countryside Services Ltd (CSL) invites Expressions of Interest from suitably qualified self-employed providers to deliver group facilitation and mentoring services as part of the Farming for Sustainability Scheme – Knowledge (2025–2030).
This opportunity is offered on a contract for services basis. It is not an employed role.
About the Services
Successful providers will be engaged, as required, to support farmer learning and engagement through:
- Facilitation of themed group meetings (15–30 farmers per group)
- Delivery of practical, discussion-based learning sessions on member farms
- Provision of structured one-to-one mentoring to support application of learning
- Themes include Suckler Cow Fertility, Water Quality, and Genetic Improvement
Groups typically meet 3–6 times per year, over an 18–24 month period.
Sessions are usually held in the evening and last 2–3 hours.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking providers who can demonstrate:
- Experience of facilitating groups, training, or peer learning with adults
- Strong technical knowledge relevant to agriculture and rural development
- Experience of mentoring, coaching, or advisory support
- Ability to organise and manage delivery independently
- Confidence working with farmers and rural stakeholders
- Professional, reliable, and well-organised approach to delivery
Delivery & Working Arrangements
- Services will be delivered on a self-employed / contractor basis
- Providers will manage their own schedules and delivery, within agreed timeframes
- Work will be allocated on a call-off basis via the Themed Groups Coordinator
- There is no guarantee of work or minimum volume
- Providers may deliver services alongside other clients or contracts
Administration & Compliance
Providers will be responsible for:
- Arranging meetings and delivery logistics
- Completing required risk assessments and records
- Recording attendance and outcomes using a computerised system
- Holding appropriate public liability and professional indemnity insurance
All scheme-specific training and equipment will be provided by CSL.
Contract Period
Panel appointments will run from 2025 to 2030, subject to performance and scheme requirements.
How to Express Interest
Interested providers should submit an Expression of Interest outlining:
- Relevant experience and technical expertise
- Approach to group facilitation and mentoring
- Availability and geographic coverage
- Proposed rates
- Confirmation of self-employed status
Full details and submission instructions are available from: applications@countrysideservices.com
Important Information
- This opportunity is offered on a contract for services basis
- Appointment to the panel does not constitute employment
- CSL is committed to fair, transparent, and objective selection processes