Since 2015, the working conditions for journalists in the UK have transformed, characterized by a decline in permanent contracts and a rise in freelance positions, from 17% to 28%. This precarious employment landscape shows gender pay gaps and is largely centralized in London. The 2023 survey reveals a shift towards 'portfolio careers,' yet highlights significant burdens for journalists without job security or benefits. While the majority of their income still derives from journalism, the trends underscore deepening inequalities in the industry.
The employment conditions of UK journalists have grown increasingly unstable, with a decline in permanent contracts from 74% in 2015 to 65% in 2023, reflecting a shift towards precarious work.
The rise in freelance journalists from 17% to 28% signifies media organizations' response to economic pressures, yet this model places journalists in vulnerable positions lacking job security.
Many journalists now pursue 'portfolio careers,' managing multiple roles across numerous organizations, revealing the fragmented nature of employment in the journalism industry today.
Despite the challenges, journalists in the survey reported earning an average of 94% of their work-related income from journalism, indicating a strong commitment to the field.
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