Software Testing – User Acceptance

I am currently emplyed by a major Insurance company within it’s UAT function. I am considering the possibility of moving into contract work in this area and wondered if anyone had any information they could give me. Specifically:
1. Agencies, recommendations/advice.
2. Useful contacts.
3. What fee I can expect to charge (3 years leading a team of analysts varying between 6 and 26 planning and implementing test phase)
4. Any lessons learned by others or general useful info would also be gratefully received.
Thank you.