Organised by NUJ Cymru Training Wales & Cardiff Metropolitan University

Tutor David Thomas

In a rapidly changing media environment there is no longer a guarantee of 'a job' in the industry. And a job isn't what everyone wants - some might prefer what a freelance life can offer.

This workshop will give you an insight into an alternative model of working - whether you're new to the industry or looking to go freelance.

Who is the workshop aimed at?

The participants will be mainly new to freelancing in the creative industries, particularly journalism.

No freelance experience will be necessary but the workshop will be a useful refresher for more experienced freelancers (including journalists who offer PR/Comms as part of their freelance portfolio).

The day will:

• Help delegates gain an insight into the practicalities of a freelance lifestyle

• Provide tips and tools for better financial planning and effective networking

• Encourage students and working professionals to share their experiences and concerns

This session will look at:

• Finance skills for freelancers - how to budget; splitting professional life from personal life

• Different types of freelance payments - PAYE, Sole Trader, Limited Company

• Tax and NI for freelancers

• Keeping records without wasting time - and the implications of HMRC’s new digital taxation

• How to agree work

• How to chase payments

• How to plan your networking

What you will learn:

Delegates will come away with a clearer idea of how to organise themselves and plan to think like a business. They will understand the importance of good record keeping, and tax and NI implications. They will also have a better understanding of how networking works in the creative industries.

Other information:

We have a cancellation policy of two weeks for this workshop because of the costs associated with running it. If you cancel within this period we will be unable to refund any course fees.

If you are a member of the NUJ and have been made redundant in the last six months, or are facing redundancy you are entitled to two days of training free of charge. Please contact Richard Speight richards@nuj.org.uk