The latest research from IPSE (the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self Employed) shows that freelancers’ contribution to the economy has continued to soar in the past year, and that London is the hub of the freelancing boom.
The Fastest Growth in Freelancing
IPSE’s report confirms that London is seeing the fastest growth in freelancing.
Home to 429,000 freelancers, the Greater London area now accounts for over a fifth (21%) of all UK freelancers – and freelancing numbers there increased by 59% between 2008 and 2016, well above the national average of 43%.
The only area with a higher proportion of freelancers is the South-East of England, which is far larger geographically yet only just pips London to the post, home to 22% of UK freelancers. At the bottom of the table sits Northern Ireland (2%), North-East England (3%) and the East of England and Wales, both with 4%.
Who Are London’s Freelancers?
Gender: While London’s gender divide in proportion of freelance workforce (43% female, 57% male) is similar to the national split of 41% female/59% male, there’s a much greater gender divide in the increase rate since 2008. London saw a huge 95% increase in female freelancers compared to the 55% UK average, while the 40% rise in London’s male freelancers is a lot closer to the 36% national figure.
Sector: The greatest proportion of freelancers in London work in associate professional and technical occupations, with 43% in this type of role.
18% of London’s freelancers work in artistic, literary and media professions and make up a quarter of all freelancers working in this sector. This sector is the largest occupational sector in UK freelancing, accounting for 15% of the UK’s freelance workforce.
Age: The average age of freelancers in London is 45 – slightly lower than the national average of 47. The highest proportion of London freelancers are in the 30-39 age bracket.
Chris Bryce, IPSE CEO, commented: “London is a global powerhouse in innovative, flexible and advanced work. It’s no surprise, therefore, that the capital is a hub for freelancers. There are a large number of supportive communities and co-working spaces in the capital which are changing the freelance game and flexible economy in London for the better.
“However, we must all recognise the striking rise in women freelancing in London, and ensure they are properly supported in this way of working. In areas such as Maternity Pay the self-employed receive reduced support. At IPSE we’re working to see this change.”