Why Collective Action is the Blueprint for Fair Work in Wales

I’ve recently returned from the TUC Cymru Congress in Llandudno, and honestly, two weeks later,  I’m still processing it. It was my first time there and it was an absolutely awesome experience, but stepping up to that podium to move a motion on behalf of the Musicians’ Union (MU) was a moment I’ll never forget. In a way, I can still feel that adrenaline rush and the nerves as I stood there, ploughing through the speech. It was only about three and a half minutes long, but still - blimey!

TUC Cymru Congress May 19-21st 2026

But more than the rush, my biggest takeaway from Congress is the power of activism. I saw it in action, in real terms for the first time. While one person can’t necessarily change the world, when we stand together collectively, we have a real chance. 

The Harsh Reality of the "Invisible" Workforce

My mission at Congress was to move a Motion: Fair Work for Freelancers. In my creative role as a composer, sound designer and producer, I’ve seen first-hand that "Fair Work" is often treated as a luxury for freelancers, not a given.

The reality we face includes a landscape of late payments, a chronic lack of legal protections, and environments where mental wellbeing is treated as an afterthought. We are an essential part of the Welsh economy, yet many of us remain vulnerable.

The CULT Cymru Guide

We aren't just asking for change; we are providing the solution. I had the privilege of presenting the ‘Engaging Creative Freelancers: Best Practice Guide’. This isn’t just a booklet; it’s a blueprint for a more resilient freelance workforce.

The guide, produced by CULT Cymru (a partnership of the MU, Bectu, Equity, and the Writers’ Guild), calls for a fundamental shift: We must prioritise ‘The Person Behind the Professional’.

Key pillars of this blueprint include:

• Clear Communication: Moving beyond transactional relationships to build trust and morale.
• Mental Health & Stress Risk Assessments: Ensuring health and safety checks don’t just look at cables on the floor, but at stress, isolation, and psychological safety.
• Prompt Payment Standards: Ensuring no freelancer has to build a life on an invoice that is perpetually "in the system".

Engaging Creative Freelancers: Best Practice Guide

 Download it here - (Opens an external link in a new window!)

Scaling the Vision Across Wales

While this guide was born in the creative industries, its heart belongs in every single sector. Whether you are a freelance tutor, a consultant, or a delivery driver, the principles of Communication, Transparency, and Respect remain the same. We called on TUC Cymru Congress to scale it up.

Looking Forward: A United Cymru

Meeting people from different industries with these common interests has reaffirmed my commitment to being more of an activist. From what I saw during my time there is a movement rooted in the belief that every worker has the right to be safe, valued, and respected.

Let’s make Wales a place where being a freelancer doesn't mean being vulnerable. Let’s protect the professional by first respecting the person, and let "Fair Work" become the ground we all walk upon.

 

Pete Bayliss: Composer, Sound Designer, Producer. 

Regional Committee Member, Musicians' Union Wales & South West Union Learning Representative & Mentor via CULT Cymru