Record self-employment powered by female freelancers
IPSE (the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed) is calling on government to take action to support the self-employed, after figures released today show a record high of people working for themselves.
Data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed there are now 4.97 million self-employed people in the UK. The rise in self-employment is driven by women choosing to become their own boss. The data showed the number of women in self-employment rose by 51,000 in the last quarter.
Responding to this these figures, Andy Chamberlain, Deputy Director of Policy at the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), said:
“This rise in self-employment is great news for the UK economy and underlines how attractive this way of working is for millions of people. Access to freelancers is a key driver of innovation and productivity for business so we must do everything we can to help them flourish.
“I’m not surprised that this boom is being powered by female freelancers. Our research shows that the freedom and flexibility of being their own boss really works for highly-skilled women who want to take control of their working lives. The Government must urgently consider the needs of this growing group and take action to improve pensions, simplify the tax system and bring in fair parental rights.”
Latest self-employed news and opinions
IPSE’s Josh Toovey argues that a changing risk–reward balance is making self-employment a harder choice for many people in the UK.
IPSE’s Managing Director, Vicks Rodwell, outlines how our new partnership with Qdos strengthens member protection, enhances expert support and delivers expanded b...
IPSE's Josh Toovey explains why 2026 could bring renewed opportunity for the self-employed after a tough 2025 of limited projects and rising costs.
