A new online service has been launched which aims to match freelance public relations professionals with those in need of support.

The PR Freelancer Portal, an online service from the Public Relations Consultants Association, will provide a free “matching service” for PRCA members looking for freelancers.

According to the PRCA, membership of the portal will be free until the end of 2011, after which freelance members will be asked to pay a £10 per month subscription charge.

"Freelancers are often the forgotten element of PR – providing the flexibility and expertise that oils the industry's wheels,” said PRCA chief executive Francis Ingham. “This new network will remedy that oversight, and provide freelancers with a fantastic opportunity – the chance to access market intelligence, insight and support from the PRCA, and to put themselves in front of clients. It will also help PRCA members, giving them access to a community of expert freelancers.”