Creative Scotland commissioned new research to inform the development of clearer and more consistent guidance on the application of industry standard rates of pay for Scotland’s freelance workers. 

Jeanie Scott from Culture Radar worked with Alice McGrath from Queen Margaret University to undertake the research and consultation which took place 2022 - 2023. 

About the project

There is a broad range of guidance, rates of pay and industry standards available to the cultural sector, but there are significant gaps and differences in how rates of pay are understood and calculated.

Findings from Culture Radar’s 2022 Review of Fair Work confirmed that these confusions and anomalies present a challenge for employers, funders and freelancers alike in knowing how to apply best practice and what represents a fair rate. 

By identifying existing sector and practice-based anomalies, and proposing recommendations for change, the research will help Creative Scotland develop new, clear and consistent guidance across its funding programmes, and help establish fairer working practices across the arts and creative industries.

The research included desk research, interviews and consultations with Creative Scotland staff as well as unions, sector support organisations, delivery organisations and freelancers between November 2022 and May 2023. A final research report with recommendations was delivered to Creative Scotland May 2023.

For enquiries about the research project please contact Creative Scotland's Media Centre.