Let’s be honest: freelancing is hard. Really hard. And most of us are learning as we go, figuring out the business side while also trying to do brilliant work for our clients.
That’s exactly why we’re launching Freelance Focus – monthly lunchtime sessions designed to give you the practical support you actually need (not another networking event where you collect business cards and forget names).
Think of these as your monthly dose of clarity, community, and getting unstuck. Every month, NEFN members gather virtually for 45-60 minutes over lunch to tackle the real challenges of running a freelance business.
We’re talking about the things that keep you up at night: how to ask for testimonials without feeling awkward, whether your LinkedIn strategy is actually working, how to manage difficult client relationships, and all those other things you’re probably overthinking right now.
Each session follows one of three formats, so you always know what to expect:
🍔 Lunch & Share – Quick, practical tips from fellow freelancers who’ve been there and figured it out. This is where members share what’s actually working for them (not what some guru says should work).
💡 Freelance Focus – Roll up your sleeves and actually get stuff done with support. These are working sessions where we tackle specific business tasks together, so you leave with tangible progress.
📣 Expert Speakers – Industry experts drop in to drop knowledge on topics that matter to your freelance business. Real expertise, no fluff.
When: One Wednesday per month, 12:00pm – 12:45pm (sometimes extending to 1:00pm)
Where: Virtual – join from wherever you’re working that day
Who: Open to all North East Freelance Network members
Format: Rotating between Lunch & Share, Freelance Focus working sessions, and Expert Speaker sessions
Registration: No need to RSVP separately – all members can join any session that interests them
We’re kicking things off in March 2026 with sessions you’ve been asking for:
Future topics will include AI for freelancers, client relationship management, marketing strategies, time management, pricing, and all the other things that come up when you’re running your own business.
Here’s what we hear from freelancers all the time: “I wish I had people who understood what I’m dealing with.”
When you’re employed, you have colleagues to bounce ideas off, managers to consult, and a whole infrastructure of support. As a freelancer? You’re often figuring it all out alone.
Freelance Focus exists to change that.
These sessions give you:
✓ Practical solutions you can implement immediately
✓ Collective wisdom from people who’ve faced the same challenges
✓ Accountability to actually work on your business, not just in it
✓ Connection with fellow North East freelancers who get it
✓ Expert knowledge without the expensive consultant fees
Freelance Focus sessions are perfect if you’re:
Freelance Focus sessions are included with full NEFN membership. If you’re already a member, you’re all set – just show up to the sessions that interest you.
Not a member yet? Learn more about NEFN membership and how to join here.
Freelancing doesn’t mean going it alone. Whether you’re stuck on a client situation, need to finally sort out your testimonial process, or want to make your LinkedIn actually work for you, Freelance Focus gives you the space and support to make it happen.
Because the business side of freelancing is hard enough. You shouldn’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
Ready to join us? The first session launches Wednesday 18th March at 12:00pm. See you there.
Questions about Freelance Focus or NEFN membership? Get in touch at admin@northeastfreeelancenetwork.co.uk
