‘How to Become a Financially Savvy Freelancer‘ – the three part webinar for live entertainment freelancers is now available on Backup website

The webinars are a free resource; to view the videos (via Youtube) and download the accompanying PDF documents CLICK HERE

ABOUT – In a joint venture, Backup Tech, The BACK LOUNGE and UK Live Event Freelancers Forum, have created a series of three Financial Literacy workshops and resources around being financially informed for freelancers working in the live entertainment industry.

This free webinar series, hosted by The BACK LOUNGE’s Suzi Green and Paul Jones from UK Live Event Freelancers Forum, along with invited guest speakers on specific topics, comprises of three, approx. one-hour webinars, each of which are stand-alone, will work synergistically to inform those working for themselves as sole traders or small businesses. 

The series aims to provide practical advice balanced with an exploration of the culture shift needed to plan effectively for long term security. They cover topics including paying tax in the most effective way for your circumstance, to efficient saving and having a war-chest for those dry spells, to which overdue bill to prioritise when things are really tight. The sessions are for anyone working in UK in live events, music touring, theatre and broadcast.

Each session was pre-recorded and edited down into an approx. 1-hour ‘highlights’ resource for wider sharing.

“Working in live events, music touring, theatre and broadcast is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. However, it often lacks stability and security,” says Backup Chair, Piers Shepperd. “The workshops are aimed at anyone concerned about income—whether during slow periods or in the long term, especially given the industry’s post-pandemic challenges and the current climate and job availability and security.”

“Financial knowledge isn’t just for accountants—it’s a crucial skill for every freelancer in our industry,” says Suzi Green from The BACK LOUNGE. “After talking with countless professionals, we realised there’s a real need for straightforward, practical advice that addresses the unique challenges of our work.”

Paul Jones from UK Live Event Freelancers Forum adds, “The unpredictable nature of freelance work can make financial planning feel overwhelming, but that’s exactly why it’s so important. These workshops will offer valuable insights into various financial aspects, helping freelancers navigate this crucial part of their careers with confidence and a better understanding.”

Following the live sessions, Backup Tech will be collecting feedback to develop additional resources and potentially organise more specialised workshops based on participant needs.

“Financial literacy isn’t just about survival—it’s about building a sustainable career in the industry we all love,” Shepperd concludes. “We’re excited to bring these critical skills to our community in an accessible, judgment-free environment.”

WEBINAR SERIES OVERVIEW

Setting Up Shop: This 1st webinar covers; Self-employed v ltd company – Savings, investments – ISAs, pensions

Staying out of trouble: This 2nd webinar covers; Insurances – business travel, PLI, financial protection, debt

Financial wellbeing – the new rock n roll: This 3rd webinar covers; The culture shift and why this approach to planning will help secure your longevity in the business. Legal matters – contracts, T&Cs, cancellation and how can you introduce these.

Backup would like to thank Suzi Green (The BACK LOUNGE) and Paul Jones (UK Live Event Freelancers Forum) for their fantastic effort in creating this resource for our industry’s freelance community. In addition to their industry day jobs, both Suzi and Paul are Backup Ambassadors, helping to spread the word about the support the charity provides and also creating greatly needed initiatives like this financial resource!