Good Morning Friends,
Welcome to the latest Soapbox newsletter! If you’re new here, it’s great to have you!
Our next gathering is on October 24th at Sierra Metro (one week today!) where you can come and meet like minded folk who freelance or are employed in culture, creative, tech & digital, for a morning of blethering and sharing news and opportunities over a cuppa. Soapbox events are free, and you’re invited to pop along any time between 8am and 10am. Whether you stay for 10 minutes or the full 2 hour duration is totally up to you!
We’d love to see you there!
Ps. I want to flag our November Soapbox which is taking place on the 28th. It’ll be something a bit different from any other Soapbox we’ve had so far, but it’s going to be something special. Mark your calendars and watch this space (and our Instagram)!
News:
Whilst I like to keep these newsletters bright and leaning towards the side of inspiration, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the hardship going on in the world right now. Both near and far. Whilst I’m pretty sure you are aware of what’s happening in Palestine and Israel, the scale of violence to civilians is unprecedented. I’ve found that in times where we may feel helpless, there are always things we can do to help:
- Write to your MP
- Donate
- Understand the context of the situation
- Limit social media/choose your news sources wisely
- Show public solidarity
Something else we felt it was important to highlight in this newsletter was how disappointed we, at Soapbox, are at the Government’s decision to reinstate the £6.6m funding cuts to the creative and arts sector. You’ve probably seen it online and read about it, so we won’t go into much detail other than if you feel as outraged as we do, please sign this petition. If you would like to read more, this link from Creative Scotland is a helpful one.
Sponsor Section & Useful Information:
FreeAgent
FreeAgent is award-winning online accounting software designed specifically for UK small businesses - and based here in Edinburgh. The folks at FreeAgent are all about making business owners and freelancers happier and more successful by putting them in control of their finances.
This month FreeAgent are highlighting some great resources to help you, our community, with all your accountancy needs:
This blog post on Fan Favourites: The FreeAgent Features Users Recommend; how having the right tools to hand can help you bring your A-game as a small business owner.
Are you thinking of starting a business? This series of guides from FreeAgent gives you everything you need to know.
Could Accounting Software save you time and money? Why not let FreeAgent's calculator help you decide!
Everyone in our Soapbox community can give FreeAgent a go with a 30 day trial and 50% off their first six months. Click here!
With Jack
If you’re a freelancer and keen to get insurance check out With Jack, they make it simple; it’s about one solid policy and the personal touch. Find out why you should invest in insurance as a creative freelancer, but don’t just take their word for it; freelance motion and graphic designer Mel McHale has some great things to say!
Are your clients wrecking your mental health? Check out this blog post: How would you live your life if you had a choice? for some great reminders on why being a freelancer has some great working perks!
Photographers & filmmakers, if you’re in the wedding industry check out this Youtube Channel from Perspective by Cinemate - hundreds of great videos and podcast episodes to help you grow your business!
The Edinburgh Minute
The Edinburgh Minute Newsletter is a quick summary of local news, events and community vibes that lands daily at 7am. The daily newsletter is free and has bonus add-ons including the weekly Edinburgh Culture Minute, containing local creative industry jobs, funding opportunities and grants. To celebrate our new partnership, founder Michael is giving all Soapbox Newsletter subscribers three months of subscription for free! That includes 12 editions of The Edinburgh Culture Minute, which normally costs £5 per week. The offer is open for Soapbox Subscribers only so be sure to sign up using this special link
Something inspirational (and thought provoking) to end our October Newsletter:
If you would like to stay up to date with more events, jobs and opportunities, do consider following us on Instagram!
If you have something you would like to share with the community please feel free to message us!
We hope to see you at our next event if you’re local, and in the meantime please feel free to share The Soapbox Newsletter if you enjoyed it.
Until next time,
Ellie & Janine