Posted By lizzie1963 Hi everyone, I'm newly registered. I've been looking back at other threads to find out as much as I can about starting my own business (all very useful), however, I would like to supplement my income rather than go it completely alone. I'm an ex-HSE inspector, currently working for a private Consultancy. My job is working for a scheme supported and funded by the HSE, contracted out to my employer, where small businesses are given free H & S advice and support by advisors such as myself. Now, to my point: a company I visited recently needed help writing a H & S Policy. He told me a consultant had quoted him £500 to write it for him. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor. As an inspector, I must have been leading a very sheltered life, as I had no idea these sort of amounts were being charged. Is that the going rate? You see, it's not the starting up that worries me (well, it does!) but how much is a fair price to charge. I'm not into ripping anyone off, but neither am I about to sell myself short. Does anyone know of any resources I can access that give rough ideas of charges? The biggest problem I have at the moment is trying to work out exactly what I'd be charging for. Your help would be appreciated. Sorry if I appear naive, but I've been giving free 'advice' for a long time, maybe I've been underestimating the value of it all this time. Incidentally, I helped him write the policy himself in 30 minutes. Lizzie

Posted By Pamela L I have my own consultancy company, and I charge in around £500, or less for health and safety policies. I have been told by my competitors that this is way too cheap and to put my prices up! (response to this would be valued!) I justify the £500 because every policy is tailored to suit the company and may take days to write up, after company interviews, and on-site inspections. However, Lizzie it does depend on the size of the organisation as obviously there would be difference in pricing structure between the local one-man business on the corner, and the blue-chip engineering firm. I hope this answers your query some and helps in some way. Pamela info@hasi.co.uk