New Network To Provide Vital Support For Tees Valley Freelancers

An innovative new project has been launched to bring vital support to creative freelancers living or working in Tees Valley.

Tees Valley Creates: The Freelancer Network is an exciting new creative and cultural network offering freelancers a unique chance to connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Membership is free and opens the door to valuable resources, professional development opportunities, 1:1 support, workshops, and a micro-grant programme.

The network will amplify the voice of regional freelancers, advocating for their needs and supporting the development of new creative works.

Freelancers form the lifeblood of the creative industries – making up a significant proportion of the sector, 32% compared to the average of 14% across other industries.

A launch event for Tees Valley Creates was held on Wednesday (November 13) attended by freelancers and senior industry figures featuring panel discussions alongside opportunities to connect and network.

More than 200 people attended the showcase which featured a performance by artist Scott Turnbull, who is separately receiving support in the Tees Valley Artist of the Year programme, and Teesside rapper Shakk.

Tees Valley Creates will be delivered by a consortium of seven organisations led by ARC Stockton Arts Centre and supported by the Tees Valley Mayor and Tees Valley Combined Authority.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We have incredible freelance talent across a huge range of creative industries in our region so it’s vital the right support is in place to ensure freelancers have the very best opportunities to succeed right here.

“The creation of this network and the involvement of brilliant local organisations will build a platform of help that will be invaluable in delivering the next generation of talent.”

Chief Executive of North East Screen and Tees Valley Business Board Member Alison Gwynn said: “Our lifeblood in the creative industries is freelancers, and even more so in the TV and film industry with 90% of those working being freelancers (Creative Skill Set WorkForce Survey).

“Over the past two years we’ve seen a 76% increase in crew registering on the North East Screen database to meet demand from the rise in production happening in the region.

“Creating this support network for Tees Valley creatives will provide much needed access to peer to peer support, which alongside key organisations, can help to sustain a long-term career within the creative sector.”

ARC Chief Executive and Creative Director Alexander Ferris said: “ARC is incredibly proud to lead this outstanding consortium. Freelancers are the lifeblood of the creative and cultural industries and this region has an amazingly diverse and impressive pool to champion. But the landscape is volatile and fragile. With this investment something very exciting is happening. With the support of TVCA and the sector we will do our very best to make the Tees Valley the greatest place to be a creative freelancer.”

Tees Valley Creates: The Freelancer Network is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) administered by Tees Valley Combined Authority.