Freelance Toolkit

Around half of the people working in film and TV in the UK are self-employed. Even if you don't start your career freelancing, you might take on extra work in your spare time alongside your main job and make the jump when you are established within your sector. This toolkit is designed to introduce you to the basics of freelancing in the screen industries. If you would prefer to download this content, go to: Freelance Toolkit (PDF). You might also be interested in Portfolio careers.

What is freelancing?

What is freelancing?

The difference between being a freelancer and staff in terms of kit, pay and satisfaction
Core skills of freelancing

Core skills of freelancing

Technical, behavioural and other skills, as well as passion, financial drive and flexibility
Types of freelancer

Types of freelancer

From sole trader to limited company and PAYE fixed term contract
Understanding UK tax

Understanding UK tax

Personal allowance, student loans, pensions, VAT, National Insurance and record-keeping
What's my rate?

What's my rate?

What factors to take into account when naming your price for your work
How do I get paid?

How do I get paid?

The different systems for different roles and what to do if you don't get paid on time
Marketing yourself

Marketing yourself

How your CV, email address, portfolio and website contribute to your personal brand
Who are my customers?

Who are my customers?

How to identify your potential clients, network and build fruitful business relationships
Managing yourself

Managing yourself

Taking care of your mental and physical health and learning to say: "No"
Where to find help

Where to find help

How ScreenSkills and other organisations can help you develop as a freelancer