Prime Minister praises freelancers contributions to the UK economy

The work of freelancers in the UK has recently received the praise and recognition it deserves.  David Cameron has praised freelancers for the contribution they have made to the struggling UK economy.  Since 2008 there has been a 12% rise in freelancers in the UK and it is freelancers in the UK who are helping to give the economy the boost it needs.

The latest figures from Kingston University and PCG show that there are now around 1.56 million freelancers in the UK.  This amounts to 5% of the UK work force.  It is no secret that unemployment rates have risen and taken a turn for the worst of late.  But, since 2008 to 2011 freelancer figures have risen by 12%.

The main areas of freelance work are in the arts and media industries.  This particular sector has around 265,000 freelancers.  Management has about 161,000 and education around 110,000.  IT has a significantly lower rate of freelancers, about 93,000 but that could be to do with how IT freelancers categorise themselves, often preferring to be called contractors.

David Cameron has spoken out about freelancers contributions to the UK work force and economy saying, “I have huge respect for all of those who make the brave decision to branch out on their own and take control over the way they work.

“This government recognises the valuable contribution that freelancers make to the economy, and, as more and more people choose to join your ranks, you have all our support.”

Recognition such as this is important for boosting the visibility of the freelancer market in the UK and the importance it has in the economy.  Freelancers are able to offer a more flexible approach to the economy, especially in times of difficulty and constraint.