For the third consecutive year, Fiverr conducted a survey interviewing over 1,500 UK freelancers and business leaders. The results reveal a workforce in transition, fueled by AI, and challenged by outdated regulations.

The 2025 UK Future Workforce Index

Mapping the New Dynamics of Freelance Work in the UK

Some key findings

The average UK company’s workforce in May 2025 vs May 2024

67%*

of freelancers say demand for their work has increased this year

35%

of businesses use freelancers to access skill sets not available in-house

45%

of businesses cite HMRC and IR35 concerns as major obstacles

51%*

of freelancers said IR35 is damaging them

1/3

of freelancers said rising rent or mortgage costs are their biggest financial challenge

AI or Die
Stats
Time is Money
1.5 full workdays saved on avarage
Gender Gap

* 'Strongly Agree’ and ‘Agree’ answers combined


The research was conducted by Censuswide, among two samples:

Sample 1: 750 Freelancers in the UK (aged 18+ who work in an office, both in the office and at home, at home or in a co-working space). The data was collected between 29.05.2025 - 10.06.2025. 

Sample 2: 750 business decision makers in the UK (Aged 18+). The data was collected between 30.05.2025 - 10.06.2025.

Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.