The UK’s 4.4 million-strong self-employed workforce is a vital part of the economy – but how financially resilient is it?
Drawing on nationally representative survey data from 1,043 self-employed individuals, we set out to assess the state of financial resilience across the sector. The research examines income stability, savings behaviour, and the financial buffers in place, alongside average day rates over the past 12 months and expectations for the year ahead. It also explores the practical barriers that prevent many from strengthening their financial position.
The picture that emerges is uneven. While a significant proportion of the self-employed report stable earnings and a degree of financial security, others are finding it increasingly difficult to build short-term safety nets or plan for later life. Higher living costs and not earning enough stand out as the most significant constraints, contributing to a growing divide in financial outlook across the sector.
Download the report to uncover the key trends, understand where resilience is strengthening or weakening, and see what must change to ensure the UK’s self-employed can thrive in the years ahead.
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Our nationally representative research examines the financial resilience of the UK's self-employed, covering income, savings, day rates, and cost pressures.
