When you are first starting as a freelance journalist, you will need to carry out significant research on every aspect of journalism. Therefore, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with relevant unions and professional bodies. Additionally, when you are working on a freelance basis, it can be quite isolating so it is worth investing time in joining the communities to learn, grow as well as keep up to date with the latest in your field. Here are some great resources for information in the field, featuring the unions and professional bodies in UK journalism. 

National Union of Journalists 

Chartered Institute of Journalists

The Newspaper Society

Commonwealth Press Union 

National Council for the Training of Journalist 

More on freelancing as a journalist.