The environment in which we work

PCG is a membership organisation, funded by membership subscriptions. PCG exists to serve the needs of its membership, which has grown steadily overthe years to encompass over 18,500 people at the beginning of 2009.

PCG members defined

No standard definition exists for the term 'freelancer'. The terms 'freelancer', 'contractor' and 'consultant' are often used interchangeably by members to describe themselves. Nor is there a standard legal structure as members variously choose to operate their businesses as sole-traders, partnerships or limited companies.

However, our members can be defined as those who offer skills and knowledge to other businesses via a commercial contract on a non-permanent basis for particular assignments.

PCG members therefore include: IT consultants, engineers, oil & gas contractors, project managers, business and management consultants, interim managers and media/marketing professionals, among other disciplines that meet the above definition.

For more detailed demographics about PCG's members and the freelance universe see our research.

Other stakeholders

PCG also maintains an active dialogue with the wider freelance marketplace, consisting of the following audiences:

• Policy makers - key contacts within government, opposition parties, MPs, MEPs and European bodies with the power to influence the fortunes of freelance workers, for better or for worse
• Client companies and agencies - who have an interest in the freelance workforce and who are variously affected by legislation regarding the engagement of freelancers
• Other professional bodies - organisations such as APSCo, REC, CBI, FSB, CIOT and ICAEW that share an interest in exchanging knowledge and creating a favourable business climate
• Media - any print, television, radio or internet outlets with an interest in the freelance sector
• Tax advisers - accountancy and tax professionals who can benefit from PCG Accreditation on the specific issues affecting freelancers, consultants and contractors

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