Freelancing rises across the board as numbers hit 1.88 million

by Susie Hughes at 14:41 23/04/15 (News on Business)

The number of UK independent professionals has hit 1.88 million, with women leading the way in the decision to go solo.

Advertisement Research from Kingston University and freelancer and self-employed group, IPSE, shows a 35 per cent jump since 2008 in highly skilled professionals choosing to work independently. Of these a larger proportion are women (up 41 per cent) compared to men (up 30.5 per cent), while the number of mothers choosing to work in this way has risen by almost 60 per cent. Since 2008, there has been a 26 per cent rise in young people (16-29 years of age) choosing independent work and a 47 per cent increase of independent professionals over the age of 60. Suneeta Johal, Head of Research, Education and Training, said: “This research adds to the mounting evidence of a structural, rather than cyclical, change to the labour market. “The figures are hugely impressive; an 8.7 per cent rise in the total number of independent professionals on the year and a huge 35.1 per cent increase since 2008 has resulted in 1.88 million now working in the UK. “Breaking down the sectoral figures sheds light on how this growth has been achieved. Information Technology and Communications has seen a 71 per cent increase in numbers, whilst health and the art and literary sectors have both seen an almost 100 per cent increase. “In addition there has been a big increase in the number of freelance mothers. This shows that the flexibility that independent working offers is becoming a more and more attractive option for those whom a work-life balance is a priority." Tweet -- If you wish to comment on this article, please log in and use the Reply button below. Registering is free and easy - see 'Join Shout99'. - Susie Hughes © Shout99 2015

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