Freelance media and PR consultant

Small businesses, charities, local organisations, start-ups and professionals who want coverage but have no in-house communications person.

Monthly retainer for ongoing media support, or fixed fees per project such as a product launch or press campaign. Some consultants also charge day rates.

• Clear, punchy writing
• Knowing how newsrooms and journalists work
• Confident communicating and pitching
• Organised, with good follow-up

• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance, check what cover suits advice-based work
• Never promise coverage; journalists decide what they run, so be clear about what you can deliver
• Data protection: check your obligations if you keep journalist or client contact lists, including ICO registration
• Work from home may need permission from a landlord or mortgage lender, so check
• Income can be uneven at first, so aim for a few retainer clients early

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £200 to £1,500, depending on your equipment, website, media list or software tools, and insurance. Working from home keeps overheads low.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £500 to £4,000, depending on how many retainer and project clients you win and your hours. Income can be uneven at first, so aim for a few retainer clients early.

Check professional indemnity and public liability insurance suited to advice-based work. Never promise coverage, as journalists decide what they run. Check your data protection obligations, including ICO registration, if you keep contact lists, and whether you can work from home.