|
Research from freelancer group, IPSE, shows there are now almost two million (1,907,000) self-employed people over the age of 50 in the UK: a number that has increased by 58.5 per cent in the last 10 years.
The growth is even bigger among highly skilled freelancers. Now there are almost a million (950,000) highly skilled freelancers in the UK: a number that has risen by 68.2 per cent in the last 10 years.
The IPSE report on the motivations and challenges of the self-employed shows why so many older people are turning to self-employment. They said the four key factors are:
- Being able to work more flexibly (89 per cent agreed this was a factor).
- Having more control over work (89 per cent).
- Having more control over hours (84 per cent).
- The freedom to choose where to work (83 per cent).
Happy
One in four older freelancers did say, however, that losing their previous job was a factor in turning to freelancing. This is compared to just seven per cent of 16-29-year-olds.
Advertisement 
IPSE’s Chloé Jepps, said: “This research clearly shows that over-fifties have played a crucial part in the growth of self-employment in the last 10 years. And what’s remarkable – aside from the sheer number of older people turning to freelancing – is how happy they seem to be with it.
“Over fifties are looking to freelancing for greater flexibility and control over how and when they work. For some, it is a way to move away from the confines of the 9-5; for others, it’s a way to launch or develop a passion project.
“It is clear that freelancing is not just an economic good for this country: it is also a great social good and a liberating force for millions of older workers. It is vital the government gets behind this remarkable shift in our workforce.”
--
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 2019
|
