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FAQs

What is Portsmouth Freelancers Meet?

PFMeet is a friendly community meetup for freelancers and small business owners in and around Portsmouth. We run regular events where you can network, share knowledge, and support each other.

What happens at an event?

We start with casual mingling so you can chat to other attendees. Then you’ll hear a few words from our organisers, followed by a short 10–15 minute talk from a guest speaker. If there’s no speaker, we’ll run a “microtheme” session instead.

What’s a microtheme event?

To keep conversation flowing, we propose a focused topic and invite everyone to contribute ideas on our microtheme wall (yes, Post-its on a pub wall - it’s nice to get off our screens!). Theme ideas could include:

• Day rates & pricing confidence
• Remote / Home working tips
• Finding clients
• Proposals, scopes & contracts
• Favourite tools & workflows
• Money admin: invoicing & getting paid
• Wellbeing, focus & impostor syndrome
• Side projects

Don't worry you don't need to get up and speak on the topic. All you'll need to do (if you like) is contribute to the microtheme wall.

Do I have to be a freelancer to attend?

No. While the community is centred on freelancers, we welcome anyone who works independently, runs a small business or an agency, is a student, or is simply curious about freelancing.

How often do events take place?

We run events once a month, every 2nd Thursday. Keep an eye on our Luma page for upcoming dates — you can also subscribe for event notifications.

Do I need to buy a ticket?

Our regular meetups are free to attend, though some special events may require a paid ticket to cover costs. Event pages will make this clear. Please register to secure a spot — spaces are limited.

Can I speak at an event?

We’d love to hear from you if you have a topic that suits the PFMeet audience. The only prerequisite is that you’ve attended at least three of our events. See our speakers page to apply.

Where do events take place?

Our current venue is the function room at The Sir Loin of Beef, in Southsea. Get directions.

Is the venue accessible?

We aim to choose accessible venues (step-free access and accessible toilets where possible). If you have specific access needs, please email hello@pfmeet.co.uk so we can help.

Are photos & videos taken at events?

We do take photos and short clips to share on social media and to promote future events. If you’d prefer not to be photographed, just tell an organiser on arrival and we’ll make sure you’re not included.

What’s the vibe - is it salesy?

Friendly and low-pressure. No hard selling; we’re here to connect, learn and support. Share what you do by all means, and swap business cards if it feels right — just keep it conversational and respectful.

Do I need to prepare anything?

Not at all. Bring yourself, maybe a notebook, a business card or two, and be ready to chat. For microtheme sessions you’re welcome to bring a thought, question or example to stick on the wall.

Is there food or drink?

The venue has a licensed bar where you can purchase alcoholic or soft drinks. There is no kitchen but the venue is fine if you want to bring your own, or order in. We provide a few snacks such as cakes and biscuits (including vegan and GF options).

What about parking and transport?

Nearest train station is Fratton. The Number 1 bus (First buses) stops almost outside (the stop is the Eastney Health Centre). Unfortunately the nearest parking is a 10 minute walk on the seafront, by Coffee Cup Eastney. There is street parking around the venue but it's permit only between 6-7pm.

Code of conduct

Be kind, inclusive and professional. We don’t tolerate harassment or discrimination. If anything makes you uncomfortable, please speak to an organiser on the day or email hello@pfmeet.co.uk.

How do I stay in the loop?

Join the mailing list via our Luma page, and follow our social channels for announcements and speaker calls.