Press Cards: Freelancers' Guide
Applications from freelances can only be accepted if the application form is countersigned and accompanied by a letter, on headed paper, from the editor or managing director of a regional or local newspaper certifying that the applicant is a responsible person who produces work for them on a regular basis and who meets the agreed criteria for the press card.
The criteria for obtaining a press card are:
- that cardholders work in the UK;
- earn the majority of their income from "the provisions of services directly concerned with the gathering of news for the written, visual or electronic media";
- need to identify themselves in public;
Payment
If the regional or local newspaper involved in authorising the application is a member of the Society the fee will cost £9.60; if a non-member, the relevant fee will be £20.40. Cheques should be made payable to The Newspaper Society.
The card will be issued for a period of two years. If required, the card can be issued for a shorter period. Please indicate on the application form.
A card is issued on the basis that it can be withdrawn if the Society considers that the holder has become ineligible or has used the card in a way likely to bring it into disrepute through misrepresentation or dishonesty.
To renew your card
- Requests for renewals do not normally require an application form or photograph to be submitted.
- The freelance should make an application in writing to The Newspaper Society, accompanied by a letter from the editor or managing director of a regional or local newspaper certifying that the applicant continues to meet the agreed criteria for the press card.
- A fee of £9.60 (if the paper is a member of the NS) or £20.40 (non member) will be required.