UK’s first awards scheme for freelance journalists opens

Freelance journalists are often overlooked by traditional awards or are excluded by high entry fees. But they are not less deserving of recognition for their high-quality hard work.

The new Freelance Journalism Awards programme just opened and all freelance journalists living in the UK can now enter.

"Now more than ever freelance journalists needed a boost. There are freelance reporters on the front line in Ukraine, freelance journalists helping the public navigate the cost of living crisis and freelance broadcasters creating innovative ways to reach new audiences through podcasting and social media channels," write award founders Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson on their website.

How it works

The entries are now open and you need to submit your work before 26 April 2023. Entries will be then shortlisted and winners will be decided by a panel of freelance journalists and editors, and announced on 7 June.

You can enter any (or all) of the seven categories, ranging from Best Broadcast Journalist to Best Investigation. Winners will get a £100 cash prize, a trophy, a goodie bag and they will also be invited to the Freelancing for Journalists podcast to talk about their work.

"It is time that freelance journalists are recognised as the backbone of reporting in the UK. It is time their expertise, experience and perseverance are rewarded. It is time for freelance journalists to shine. It is time that freelance journalists had their own awards - not just a category," write Canter and Wilkinson.

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