What the Professional Contractors Group can do for you
If you are a freelancer, consultant or contractor working via a limited company, partnership, umbrella or as a sole-trader, PCG membership can protect you from issues that could damage your business and through CWJobs, you can receive a 15% discount when you join.
Why people join PCG
PCG is the not-for-profit industry association that looks after the interests of freelancers, consultants and contractors. The association is growing fast – currently over 18,000 members enjoy the benefits from just £120 a year. In return, members who use the full range of resources find that membership pays for itself, many, many times over. Some of PCG’s activities can save you thousands and even tens of thousands!
The benefits
PCG advises government on productive ways of incentivising the freelance and contracting workforce. They also investigate cases of bad practice in the industry, collect evidence and follow up with appropriate action, for example ICT abuse The more members they have, the greater their influence.
Tax defence: professional expenses insurance to rescue you during a tax investigation
Tax rules are like shifting sands and it is possible to make very costly mistakes. Their tax investigation insurance covers eligible cases up to £75,000 in cost but they have gone far further when there is a principle at stake - in some cases all the way to the House of Lords.
Advice & resources: streamline your business to save time and money
When you join, you unlock the full PCG resource, including free tax and legal help-lines, contract templates to militate IR35 and other business risks, plus online forums and a regular concise update through their quarterly magazine, fortnightly newsletter and network of workshops.
Promotion: growing the market for freelancing and creating opportunities
They invest your membership subscriptions in educational programmes to create a cultural shift in the market, helping organisations understand the benefits of using freelancers and the correct way to manage the engagement. They also provide a number of resources to help freelancers find work, including the PCG Directory where you can showcase your expertise to potential clients.
Community: exchange knowledge, find work and collaborate
PCG works with a range of suppliers delivering tailored services and discounts to the membership that can in many cases exceed the actual cost of membership. This includes insurances, accountancy support, contract reviews, etc.
PCG’s aim is to be the voice of freelancing; to be the ultimate authority on all issues that affect freelancers. PCG wants freelancing to be valued and respected – not only as a legitimate choice for the working professional, but as a vital force for the UK economy.
To join or find out more about PCG membership
The more they are, the stronger they are! Navigate to the Which membership page on the PCG website and browse benefits tailored to your specific needs. If you know which membership category you need, click on that category in the left hand menu or call 0845 125 9899.
To get your 15% membership discount, select the membership package that suits you, and begin the application process. Once you have accepted the terms and conditions, enter the promotional code CWJOBS in the field provided and your discount will automatically be calculated.
Further links:
- Setting up your company
- Contractor finance
- Contractor insurance
- Search for IT contractor jobs