Today’s market requires a flexible workforce, and many people are attracted by freelance options.

• Take advice from a qualified accountant as to whether to work PAYE or on a  self-employed basis
• Once you take into account pension contributions, bonuses, car allowances, training etc, there often isn’t much financial difference between freelance and permanent
• The main benefit of freelance is the freedom to take time off as and when required
• However, freelance professionals often find themselves with too much work, resulting in limited or no holidays
• Be aware that going freelance and then returning to permanent employment will have an impact on career progression – you are only likely to return to the same level that you held in your last permanent role
• The main risk of freelance is having periods out of work – permanent staff will take precedence if a workforce is reduced