External Speaker Engagement Policy

The terms ACHFN expects host organisations to meet when inviting ACHFN directors or senior representatives to external engagements.

Policy statement and scope

This policy applies when external organisations invite ACHFN directors or authorised senior representatives to speak, facilitate, advise, appear in media, or contribute to external programmes.

It is designed to protect dignity, reciprocity, fairness, and organisational integrity when ACHFN knowledge is shared outside ACHFN-led events.

Principles

The policy is guided by reciprocity, dignity, transparency, accessibility, and cultural safety, with a specific commitment not to allow ACHFN speakers to be tokenised or asked to defend their identity for others' comfort.

Fees and host responsibilities

ACHFN states that its directors' time and expertise are valuable and should not be offered without clear compensation terms.

Minimum rate of £250 per hour or part thereof for speaking engagements
Travel, accommodation, subsistence, and access costs covered by the host
Payment typically due within 14 days of invoice submission
No acceptance of 'exposure' as compensation

Confirmation and cancellation

Hosts are expected to confirm engagements in writing, covering the date, format, expected contribution, fee, payment process, expenses, access needs, cancellation policy, and a named contact.

More than 14 days' cancellation notice: no fee, but non-refundable expenses reimbursed
7–14 days' notice: 50% of agreed fee plus expenses
Less than 7 days' notice: 100% of agreed fee plus expenses

Access, recording, and event conduct

The document requires hosts to meet access needs where possible, accurately attribute ACHFN speakers, and obtain explicit written agreement before recording or distributing content.

Host organisations are expected to provide clear briefings, welcoming and culturally safe environments, respectful introductions, and moderated audience interaction.