Software developers launch freelance co-operative in Gateshead

A group of freelance software developers and other technical creatives in Gateshead have set up a networking group to help them collaborate on projects and share working opportunities.

Known as Code-Operative, the group want to provide value for money using a team of specifically skilled individuals that businesses can trust.

One of the group’s co-founders, John Evans, said: “We are committed to creating a transparent, direct relationship between technical freelance professionals and customers, built on trust.”

He continued: “As coders, artists, creatives, and technical people with a social awareness we believe there is a better way than the traditional culture of using third parties.

“We want to bring transparency and value for money back to freelance software development, while using this as a vehicle to enrich the local software community.”

According to co-founder Nick Woodfine, the group’s aim for its members is to help with renumeration, job security and career progression, while clients will benefit from “streamlined and quality-focused development teams.”

Code-operative is being set up with support from Gateshead Council, and councillor John Adams believes this kind of arrangement can benefit the local economy.

He said: “I’m really keen to see more cooperatives in the digital sector as I think it will lead to more innovation and creativity. It also helps people have more control over their lives and helps keep wealth in local communities.

“At the Council we want to see a Gateshead where everyone thrives. To do this, we need to invest in our economy to provide opportunities for employment, innovation and growth. Supporting Code-Operatives is an excellent example of how we can do this.”

Code-Operative is running a pre-launch event on October 17 at PROTO with networking, coding challenges and presentations.

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