London Freelance Branch

London Freelance Branch is the National Union of Journalists' largest grouping. With around 3000 members, it represents nearly one-tenth of the whole Union. Its members work as freelances - not just reporters and photographers, but sub-editors, designers, and all other kinds of journalist. Some are between staff jobs, and many others join the Branch to organise alongside colleagues who want to be freelance.

Branch members meet monthly to discuss issues of importance to freelance journalists and to hear speakers on matters ranging from avoiding Repetitive Strain Injury through tax-efficient accounting to promoting Freedom of Information.

The Branch publishes the Freelance newsletter ten or more times a year. This also produces the "Rate for the Job" service, letting freelances know what clients are actually paying.

Members often turn to the Branch Committee for advice and support, when they need to talk to someone who actually works as a freelance. Committee members are working journalists, not paid union officials, donating some time to help fellow-journalists in various ways.

The union's officers and staff can often provide more immediate help on general matters.