Frequently Asked Questions for Individuals

The following FAQs focus on the needs of those individuals considering/availing of an interchange and should be considered in the context of the individual’s own organisation.

• What interchange options are available?
• What are the potential benefits of an interchange?
• Can I apply for an interchange?
• How do I find out about opportunities?
• How do I identify a suitable opportunity?
• Who can I talk to about the opportunity?
• Will my terms and conditions be affected?

What interchange options are available?

There are various types of interchange available. A full list is at Section 1 of this guidance.

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What are the potential benefits of an interchange?

Those who experience interchange should:

• learn about the working practices and culture of different organisations for business benefit to their own organisation;
• develop and broaden their competence and career experiences;
• learn to adapt to new challenges and situations;
• develop contacts, networks and widen their perspective.

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Can I apply for an interchange?

You can apply for an interchange provided that you:

• are a permanent member of staff;
• have the agreement of your line manager, interchange manager, and personnel section where this is deemed appropriate;
• have the agreement of the appropriate budget holder, where funding is required.

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How do I find out about opportunities?

Interchange opportunities can be arranged in different ways. However in all cases you will need to gain the support of your line manager. Where you and your line manager have identified an opportunity or need, you should complete a pro-forma (see Annex 2) with your line manager. This will include business and personal benefits and should be sent to your interchange manager. The interchange manager will then liaise with the Interchange Unit in Central Personnel Group who will aim to match your opportunity or need with other opportunities identified.

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How do I identify a suitable opportunity?

To help you decide whether or not interchange is the right option for you, you should consider the following questions with your line manager:

• how does the opportunity link to my organisation’s business needs?
• what are the business benefits to my organisation?
• what can I contribute to a host organisation?
• what do I want to get out of the opportunity?
• does it provide the opportunity to broaden my experience?
• will it equip me with new knowledge and skills?
• is the timing right for my career development?

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Who can I talk to about the opportunity?

There are various people you could talk to who could help you come to the right decision about the opportunity:

• your line manager;
• your interchange manager;
• your personnel department;
• the Interchange Unit in Central Personnel Group;
• colleagues who have previous experience of an interchange;
• colleagues who currently are on an interchange.

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Will my terms and conditions be affected?

Normally the interchange will be the result of a local agreement, which will have no bearing on your existing terms and conditions of service. However, in the case of secondments or on loan arrangements, new conditions may apply and a written agreement should be signed by all of the parties involved. This agreement should set out arrangements covering your salary, associated allowances, keeping-in-touch, training and development, performance appraisal, and any other relevant matters.

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© Interchange 2004