06/10/2026
Introducing the Freelancers’ Handbook, a practical guide created by freelancers, for freelancers. 🔖
Written and co-edited by Rachel Mapplebeck, the Freelancers’ Handbook is the first of its kind by Arts Council England – designed for freelancers across the cultural sector and the organisations that work with them.
The handbook is full of real-world guidance shaped by cultural freelancers, including:
🔹 Professional development
🔹 Fair pay and contracting
🔹 Wellbeing
🔹 Financial support
🔹 And much more...
Alongside this, our new, regularly updated Resources Directory connects you with paid work, funding, training, events, and case studies selected by freelancers.
🔗 Explore the free handbook and directory:
https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/freelancers-handbook
🔉 Share with networks and peers and let us know what you think.
💻 Feedback to influence the next edition of the Freelancers’ Handbook.
The Freelancers’ Handbook was created in response to the 2024 Cultural Freelancers Study in which 5,000 freelancers told us what they need. We hope this is the first step towards a fairer, more sustainable sector.
