Professional bodies and unions for Journalists

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 – NUJ offers a monthly membership between £16-28, while also working to defend press freedom and ensure the health and safety measures of journalists while they work. Committing to improving diversity within the workplace is something that NUJ strives upon.

The Newspaper Society – Topics covered include media ownership, press freedom, the environment, and the safety of journalists. By signing up for their newsletter, you can receive information about the latest trending topics.

Commonwealth Press Union – The CPU Media Trust is a great resource to find out about the history of commonwealth media and the freedom of media.

National Council for the Training of Journalist – Learn key skills and gain essential journalism experience through the various journalism qualifications and apprenticeships available. The National Council for the Training of Journalists also offers a journalism skills academy where you can join in-person courses and classes.

British association of journalists – Rated 5 stars by their members, The British Association of Journalists (BAJ) is a non-political trade union for journalists and freelance journalists who work within the media industry. Editorial journalists, magazine journalists, and news reporters are just some of the individuals who are welcomed as members.

Foreign Press Association - This site has around 500 members coming from over 60 countries, with over 250 media outlets being represented as a result. This multicultural union is a great way to make meaningful connections across the globe.

The Society of Women Writers and Journalists – This group is a non-political society for women writers and journalists who promote opportunities for women to be seen and heard in the industry.

More on freelancing as a journalist.