63% of freelancers and temporary workers in the creative industries feel optimistic about the next six months.
We asked 1,478 UK-based freelancers, temporary workers, and people that rely on freelance talent within the creative industries to complete our Voice of the Freelancer survey.
All responses were anonymous, and we offered no incentive or reward for their participation.
Freelance life remains full of potential but it’s not without friction. From late payments and onboarding admin to gaps between roles, there’s still work to do.
The good news? 81% of respondents plan to increase their use of freelance talent in 2025.
From last-minute cancellations and payment delays to clunky onboarding and a lack of recognition, the freelancer experience can vary widely. But getting it right makes all the difference, not just for the individual, but for your reputation.
Our latest research dives into how freelancers are feeling in 2025. While familiar challenges persist, from unpredictable income to instability outside their control, there’s also a renewed sense of optimism.
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About Handle Recruitment
We opened the doors in 1978 and built our reputation in the music industry. We quickly realised that a great brand is not always a household name. A great brand is something people connect with, not just a place they work. Somewhere that helps them become better at what they do. It could be a record label, it could be in media, it could be a tech start-up.
Supporting Great People in Marketing | Finance | HR | Office Support | Sales | Legal | Event Operations | Post-Production.
The Talent Solutions we provide, Permanent, Temporary and Interim Recruitment | People Consultancy | Outsourced Freelancer Payroll & Compliance.
The Industries we support: Music | Film | TV | Entertainment | Fashion | Live Events | Sport | Publishing | Post-production.