van der Knight understands the frustration of not knowing how much things cost in advance.
Most clients will initially work with us for a single project but come to a retainer agreement in due course. Retainers work for political work because that relationship, consistency and understanding helps address the ever-convulsive nature of modern politics and communications.
How we work
van der Knight offers flexible engagement models, but most clients choose a retainer agreement because it provides continuity, predictable support, and the ability to respond quickly during busy periods.
All work is scoped in advance with clear expectations and no hidden costs. Retainer clients benefit from priority access and ongoing strategic continuity.
By far the most popular arrangement.
A monthly arrangement covering a minimum amount of time or work, with the flexibility to scale up during peak activity such as deadlines, political events, or surges in activity. This model ensures consistent strategic support and avoids the stop–start limitations of ad-hoc commissioning.
Retainer agreement
Often the first type of arrangement for new clients.
A scoped fee combining day rates with any agreed additional costs, for example, printing or distribution. Popular with clients who look for support for clearly defined, time‑limited pieces of work.
Fixed project work
Suitable for tightly defined tasks or short-term support.
In simple terms we have two day rates - a standard rate for desk-based work such as research, analysis, drafting, or strategic planning and a remote rate that includes standard travel and field expenses for on‑the‑ground campaigning, stakeholder meetings, or site-based political work.