Acas provides free, impartial information about workplace rights, employment law and resolving problems at work in England, Scotland and Wales.

Its guidance covers subjects including employment status, contracts, pay, discrimination, dismissal and employment tribunals. Acas also operates a confidential helpline and provides early conciliation in potential employment-tribunal disputes.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Labour Relations Agency for information about employment rights and workplace disputes.

A relevant trade union may provide contract guidance, workplace advice, representation or legal support to its members. Eligibility and the support available will depend on the union’s rules and when the problem arose.

• Equity
• Bectu
• Musicians’ Union
• Writers’ Guild of Great Britain

If you are already a member, contact your union promptly when a problem arises. Legal claims and union support schemes may be subject to time limits or eligibility conditions.

Independent advice services can help you understand a problem, identify possible next steps and find appropriate legal support.

• Citizens Advice provides guidance for England and Wales on finding free or affordable legal help.
• Citizens Advice Scotland explains legal costs, advice and assistance, and legal aid in Scotland.
• Advice NI connects people in Northern Ireland with independent advice services and operates a freephone advice helpline.

The subjects covered, eligibility and level of individual support will vary between services.

If you believe you have experienced discrimination or a breach of your human rights, specialist services can help you understand the relevant protections and possible next steps.

The Equality Advisory and Support Service provides free information and support about equality and human-rights issues in England, Scotland and Wales.

In Northern Ireland, the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland provides free and confidential information about discrimination and the protections available under Northern Ireland law.

These services provide information and support, but do not necessarily provide individual legal representation. Strict time limits may apply, so seek advice promptly.

LawWorks provides a searchable directory of legal advice clinics offering free initial advice to individuals who may not be eligible for legal aid and cannot afford to pay for a lawyer.

Participating clinics cover different areas of law, which may include employment, housing, debt, benefits and consumer problems. Some offer advice remotely, while others operate in particular local areas.

Use the LawWorks clinic search and check each clinic’s subjects, eligibility requirements and appointment arrangements.

Avant-Garde Lawyers is an international legal organisation working to protect artists facing censorship, persecution or other legal and human-rights challenges connected to their creative work.

Its team develops legal strategies, works with legal partners and supports cases across different countries and artistic disciplines.

If you are an artist at risk or believe your human rights have been violated because of your art, visit the Get Help page to contact the organisation.

From governance and charity law to contracts, compliance and strategic support, ProArtsPlus helps mission-led organisations handle complex issues clearly and confidently.

Working with cultural, charitable and mission-led organisations across governance, law and strategy. Visit the website here.

Harbottle & Lewis is a UK law firm with specialist experience in theatre, media, entertainment and the wider creative industries.

Its services include employment, contracts, intellectual property, reputation, dispute resolution and other legal matters affecting creative organisations and individuals.

This is a commercial law firm. Visit its theatre-sector page to explore its areas of work and contact the firm directly about availability and fees.