Starting conditions - self employment/sub contractors

The self-employed contract model at Belong in Plymouth created a distinctive structure where most contributors worked approximately one day per week. This approach brought numerous benefits that ultimately shaped the work.
By engaging multiple part-time contributors rather than fewer full-time staff, we benefited from a diversity of perspectives, skills, and experiences. Without these varied influences, our work wouldn't have achieved the same level of success.
Most of us weren't financially dependent on income from Belong in Plymouth, which meant participation was largely driven by belief in the mission rather than economic necessity. I think this created an intrinsically motivated team united by shared values and purpose.
There were exceptions to this model—Karen and myself had greater financial dependency on the Belong in Plymouth. Fortunately, we were both were passionate about the work!
Perhaps most significantly, this flexible staffing approach allowed the work to evolve organically. As new needs emerged, people with relevant skills could be brought in without major restructuring. The work could expand and contract different functions as required, adapting to changing circumstances and priorities.
The combination of a more stable "spine" of employed core roles supplemented by flexible self-employed contributors created a resilient yet adaptable structure that I think served us well.