Professional Development


Here at SAF we support our members to be more effective and to excel in what they do.
We can help you find funding or develop a strategy for your project. We can give you contacts of people or organisations you could approach, to get involved or to partner with. We can advice you on how you can reach more people and promote what you do. We are also able to suggest ways to update your skills through training, mentoring or other support.

Email and telephone advice

As a member you are welcome to drop us a line or give us a call at any time if you need some quick advice or signposting. You may simply want to briefly talk through a project idea with someone, or to get a tip off on some relevant contacts.

We are friendly and approachable and always enjoy hearing from our members! Please note though that we all work part time, so bare with us if you don’t hear back straight away. 

“What struck me about SAF is just how much it is run for its members – it is warm, informal and very friendly, it feels non-bureaucratic but about art and people” (Tanja Raaste, Creative Producer)

One-to-One advice sessions

For more in depth advice we run One-to-One sessions for both artists and arts professionals. These provide tailored advice, signposting and contacts with SAF’s Director. 

                "Excellent information and detailed feedback” (Leonie Kubigsteltig)

 “Really thorough and useful opportunity to talk through our organisation's needs” (Lucy Bradley)


You can chose what you want a One-to-One session to focus on, either Business Support or Professional Development. It could be support on developing a business plan or funding proposal, help with looking at the direction or focus of your work, ideas for marketing, plus signposting to appropriate contacts.

They are very popular and prove invaluable for members who have undertaken one:

  • “Very helpful advice on my funding application”
  •  “I set targets for my career development and personal motivation” 
  • “Better idea of the focus of my project and how to go forward”
  • “Greater understanding of the key structures locally”

To book: 
1. Please download and return our Booking Form.
    The info provided by you will help us provide you with the best possible and most efficient support.
2. To check availability and book a session please Contact Us.  
    There may a 3-6 week lead time due to the popularity of this service.

Fee:   1 hour session = £30 for individuals (including business start-ups)     
                                  £50 for small organisations (less than: 5 staff or turnover of £100,000)
                                  All other organisations will need to contact SAF to discuss their needs.

Become a Member and join over 2000 artists and creative professionals. Membership is free.