tCI Coffee Mornings – Frequently Asked Questions

Starting 5th February, join us every Thursday from 11am to 12pm for informal, expert led discussions on consultation and engagement topics. These free virtual sessions bring together professionals from across the sector to learn, share, and connect with our faculty and guest speakers.

Whether you’re new to consultation or a seasoned practitioner, our Coffee Mornings offer a welcoming space to explore current issues, ask questions, and engage with like minded professionals, all from the comfort of your desk with a cup of coffee in hand.

Below you’ll find answers to common questions about the sessions. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Drop us a line at hello@consultationinstitute.org

1. About the Sessions

What are tCI Coffee Mornings? tCI Coffee Mornings are weekly virtual sessions that provide an opportunity for the consultation and engagement sector to engage with and learn from members of our faculty on key consultation and engagement topics.

When do they start? The Coffee Mornings launch on 5th February 2026.

Who organises them? The sessions are organised by The Consultation Institute (tCI).

When do they take place? Every Thursday from 11:00am to 12:00pm, excluding holiday periods (Easter, Christmas, and part of the summer).

Where are they held? The sessions are held virtually via MS Teams. Invites will be sent out following registration, and the same link will be used each week for consistency.

2. Who Should Attend?

Who are these sessions designed for? The Coffee Mornings are designed to support professionals responsible for leading or delivering consultation and engagement projects or programmes.

Are they sector specific? Not usually, though some sessions may focus on specific sectors. This will be indicated in advance.

Can anyone attend? Yes, the sessions are open to anyone interested in consultation and engagement topics.

Can multiple people from my organisation attend? Absolutely! Teams are welcome to attend together.

3. Registration & Access

Do I need to book in advance? No, the sessions are drop in. However, you do need to register via LinkedIn or email to receive the MS Teams invite.

How do I register? You can register via our LinkedIn page or by emailing hello@consultationinstitute.org

Is there a cost to attend? No, the sessions are completely free.

Do I need to download MS Teams? Yes, you’ll need MS Teams to join. You can download it or access it via your browser.

4. What to Expect

What does a typical session look like?

• 5 minutes: Welcome, format explanation, and introduction to the topic and faculty member
• 20 to 25 minutes: Discussion/presentation by guest speaker
• 20 minutes: Q&A session
• 10 minutes: Wrap up

What’s the format and atmosphere? An informal, friendly discussion with experts in their fields. We’re absolutely here to help and encourage open dialogue.

Will there be guest speakers? Yes, sessions will feature guest speakers from our faculty and the wider sector. Speakers will be announced in advance.

What level of expertise is assumed? This depends on the topic. Some sessions will be suitable for beginners, while others may be more advanced. We’ll indicate the level when announcing each session.

Will sessions cover practical tools/methods or theory? Both! Our sessions aim to balance practical application with theoretical understanding.

How many people typically attend? When previously run by the Institute, these sessions were very popular. As we’re relaunching, we’re excited to rebuild the community.

5. Participating in Sessions

Can I turn my camera on? Yes, cameras are welcome! While it’s not mandatory, we encourage participants to turn their cameras on, especially when asking questions, as it helps create a more engaging discussion.

How do I ask questions? Questions are held until the Q&A portion of the session. You can either ask verbally or type them into the chat function during the presentation, and we’ll address them in the dedicated Q&A time.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance? No preparation is needed, though you’re welcome to think about questions you might want to ask.

Will there be breakout rooms? No, sessions are run as one main discussion to keep everyone together.

6. Attendance & Schedule

Do I need to attend every week? Not at all! Drop in whenever topics interest you. There’s no commitment to attend every session.

How far in advance will topics be announced? We aim to announce topics a season at a time, giving you plenty of notice to plan your attendance.

Will there be a schedule published in advance? Yes, at the beginning of each season. Please note there may occasionally be changes.

When do sessions not run? Sessions pause during Easter, Christmas, and part of the summer holiday periods.

How long will the programme run? This will be confirmed in due course.

7. Recordings & Resources

Will sessions be recorded? No, these are live coffee morning discussions and won’t be recorded.

What if I can’t attend live? Unfortunately, there’s no catch up option. Sessions are designed to be live, interactive experiences.

Will slides or resources be shared afterwards? This depends on the individual session and speaker. Where possible, we’ll share relevant materials.

8. Getting Involved

Can I suggest topics for future sessions? Absolutely! We’d love to hear your ideas.

Can I recommend speakers or volunteer to present? Yes, we’d welcome suggestions and presentations from the community.

Is there a community or networking aspect between sessions? Not at this point within the Coffee Mornings themselves, but tCI membership offers networking opportunities. We may develop this further in the future, especially for members.

Are there opportunities for organisations to partner? Yes, we’re open to partnership opportunities. Please get in touch to discuss.

9. Support & Feedback

Who can I contact if I have questions after a session? You can contact Nick Duffin, our Lead Fellow, via hello@consultationinstitute.org

Is there ongoing support available between sessions? Yes, we’re always happy to have a discussion. Just reach out via email.

How can I provide feedback on sessions? We welcome all feedback at hello@consultationinstitute.org

Are sessions CPD accredited? No, sessions are not formally CPD accredited, and certificates of attendance are not provided.

First Time Visitors

What should I know before attending my first session? This is an informal, friendly discussion with experts in their fields. There’s no need to be nervous – we’re here to share knowledge, learn together, and support one another in the consultation and engagement community.

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Contact & Further Information

Email: hello@consultationinstitute.org

LinkedIn: The Consultation Institute

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Ready to join us? Register via LinkedIn or email hello@consultationinstitute.org to receive your MS Teams invite.