A survey of freelance newspaper and magazine journalists has highlighted the need for clear and fair contracts in this fiercely competitive profession.
A recent survey conducted by Loughborough University on behalf of the Authors' Licensing & Collecting Society (ALCS) was formally launched at the All Party Writers Group summer reception at the House of Commons on Tuesday 10 June.
The research, which was carried out in late 2013 into the incomes, working practices and rights of freelance newspaper and magazine journalists, has revealed that despite typically retaining their copyright, journalists are unlikely to receive the full value of the rights that they hold, due to a lack of clear terms with their publishers.
The findings, from a survey entitled 'Valuing the rights of freelance journalists' revealed that a large percentage of journalists had worked without a contract for most or all of their commissions over the last 5 years. Where contracts were forthcoming they frequently contained clauses requiring assignment of copyright. Of those who had signed contracts, just 49% of newspaper freelancers and 35% of magazine freelancers had managed to retain their copyrights.
The research shows that typical respondents (51% men, 49% women) had been writing for an average of 18 years. While 49% of those surveyed said that they were the main bread-winner in their household, 58% earned less than £8,000 a year from their freelance writing.
The survey also reveals particular ambiguity for creators concerning rights to syndicate and sub-licensing rights.
Overall, the current situation 'lacks clarity, certainty and fairness,' concludes the research.
"This research clearly illustrates the instability in economic recompense and in establishing appropriate contractual terms for writers working as freelancers for magazines and newspapers in the current environment. Writers are in many cases working completely in the dark in terms of knowing what their rights are and we want to ensure that, going forward, they are commissioned on terms that clearly state their rights and most importantly allow for fair and equitable remuneration for the uses of their works."
Barbara Hayes - Deputy Chief Executive, ALCS
A booklet summarising the findings 'A free for all' can be downloaded from the ALCS website
http://www.alcs.co.uk
