ONS figures published today (Wednesday 17 February) report the number of self-employed has risen by 154,000 in the three months leading up to December 2015, compared to the same period in 2014. There are now 4.66 million self-employed people in the UK.

IPSE, the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self Employed, welcomes the record levels in the number of self-employed. Commenting on the figures, IPSE Economist Lorence Nye said: “Today’s figures show yet another record high in the number of people who choose to work for themselves. The self-employed are driving a structural evolution in the UK labour market, providing our economy with flexibility and an essential competitive edge. “This significant increase comes just days after the release of the Independent Review of Self Employment, which identified some of the biggest benefits and challenges facing this key sector of the UK economy.

“With so many people making the decision to be their own boss, it’s now important for the Government to move ahead with implementing the Review’s recommendations. The upcoming Budget represents a great opportunity to announce maternity and adoption pay for the self-employed on the same level as employees. Working for yourself is a positive choice, with our research showing the vast majority (86 percent) are very satisfied with the way they work. It’s vital the Government supports this growing part of our economy as they are here to stay.”