A new study by Leapers, a project dedicated to supporting freelancers’ mental health, has revealed that 45% of UK freelancers experienced a decline in their mental wellbeing in 2024. Despite their significant contribution to the economy, only 6% felt supported by the government.
Freelancers Facing Financial and Emotional Struggles
The past year has been particularly challenging for freelancers, with rising living costs and unstable income exacerbating their difficulties. Many have faced financial insecurity due to delayed or missing payments, with 71% of freelancers experiencing late payments from clients. This ongoing issue has left many struggling to cover their basic expenses, increasing stress and anxiety.
Adding to these challenges, 72% of freelancers reported being ghosted by clients where communication suddenly stops, sometimes even before payments are made. This has led to greater financial distress, particularly for those relying on steady freelance work as their primary income source.
Alongside financial insecurity, freelancers have faced emotional and psychological difficulties:
- Over two-thirds felt unsupported and lacked access to adequate mental health resources.
- Only 10% reported not experiencing loneliness or isolation throughout the year.
- One in three freelancers became self-employed out of necessity, due to factors like redundancies, caregiving responsibilities, or disabilities making traditional employment unsuitable.
With an estimated 2 million freelancers contributing over £160 billion to the UK economy, the absence of structured support is a growing concern. The lack of mental health resources for this essential workforce could place additional strain on the NHS, as mental health issues continue to rise among self-employed individuals.
Calls for Greater Awareness and Support
Matthew Knight, founder of Leapers, highlighted the urgent need for change: “Freelancers are a crucial part of the economy, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to mental health support. We urge businesses that hire freelancers to consider what they can do to provide better support. The government must also step in to offer clearer signposting and dedicated resources for the self-employed.”
The research highlights that while traditional employees often have HR support, sick pay, and mental health programmes, freelancers are left to navigate these challenges alone. The study calls for businesses, clients, and policymakers to take action in providing mental health support, ensuring fair payment practices, and creating a healthier work environment for freelancers.
In response, Leapers has launched a new platform offering freelancers guidance on mental health, financial security, and navigating self-employment. The full report is available on the Leapers website, providing further insights into the struggles of freelance workers.
Shib Mathew, co-founder of freelancing.support and former founder of the UK’s largest freelancing marketplace, praised Leapers’ work:
“Leapers has been a leading voice in championing mental health and wellbeing for freelancers. Their continued efforts are invaluable to the self-employed community.”
As the gig economy continues to expand, addressing these challenges is more crucial than ever. Without proper support systems, mental health initiatives, and fairer financial protections, freelancers risk further instability. Employers, clients, and policymakers must take proactive steps to ensure freelancers receive the support they need to thrive in an increasingly uncertain work environment.