PCG aims to be the principal and definitive source of knowledge about freelancing and self-employment in the UK. In partnership with academic institutions and research agencies our research programme 2011/12 looks to explore trends within the independent workforce and explore the value that freelancers bring to the economy. 

PCG carries out regular research amongst its members to establish how the freelancing market is operating, and – particularly – how PCG is performing. The work provides insights into whether PCG’s member services and policy/lobbying work continue to be useful and effective for members.

2012, 2010 , 2008 , 2007 , 2006

The importance of freelancers to the UK economy

Synopsis: This report seeks to highlight the vital and often understated role that freelancers play in the UK economy, particularly in the current economic climate when the flexibility which they offer to businesses is of the utmost importance.

UK Freelance Workforce: A snapshot 2011

Synopsis:

1. The UK Freelance Workforce: Key figures and trends: Following on from the 2008 report, "Defining and estimating the size of the UK freelance workforce", John Kitching, of Kingston University, provides a concise snapshot of the current UK freelance workforce.
2. Freelancers at the Heart of the 21st Century Agility-Based Economy: As a precursor to his study into "The value that freelancers bring to the 21st Century economy", Professor Andrew Burke, of Cranfield School of Management, deliberates on the 4 key roles that freelancers play in the UK economy. Insight is taken from his case studies so far.

Freelance Benchmarking Survey  

Synopsis: PCG surveyed all members in June 2011, asking them a range of questions about their freelancing experiences over the last 12 months. The aim of this survey was to provide members with an insight into current freelance trends.

Synopsis: PCG has commissioned research agency ComRes to look at how client and freelancer views differ and to focus on the core value of freelancing and of freelancers themselves. The ComRes research also sought to focus on the future of freelancing, gaining an insight into how the world may be changing and how this may impact upon all of our prospects.

An International Perspective 2010

Synopsis: In July 2010 PCG held a roundtable discussion entitled "Shaping the Freelance Landscape - International Perspectives". This event bought together freelancers and academics from the UK, Europe and Australia to discuss the freelance way of working and how international examples can be applied to the UK market.

2008 Report 

Synopsis: PCG has commissioned the Small Business Research Centre at Kingston University   to research the nature and size of the freelance marketplace in the UK. This work utilises existing data sets as well as original interviews with experts across a wide range of sectors: it offers an overview of who works freelance in the UK.

If you would like any further information on any aspect of our research programme please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it