Jobseekers Guide to finding Remote Work in the UK
The rise in popularity of remote work has massively changed the way people think about their careers. Now we don’t have to be stuck in an office any more, jobseekers have access to a huge choice of remote jobs that give flexibility and convenience. Working 9-5, Monday to Friday just doesn’t fit in with our modern lives, we need better choices. There are loads of opportunities available, whether you’re looking for employed work or to be a freelancer.
The UK does not have any specific kind of remote work visa at present, but for those with rights to live in and work within the region, there are growing possibilities, including new legal moves to enhance rights to request flexible working from day one. This guide will explore the types of remote work available to UK residents, the latest updates on employment rights, and how to navigate the world of UK self-employment.
Popular Types of Remote Jobs in the UK
Remote work in the UK can be done in lots of industries, offering roles for all levels of experience and expertise. Some of the options include:
Freelancing and Contracting
Freelancing is one of the most accessible ways to start working remotely. UK freelancers can take on clients from all over the world, providing a range of services such as writing, graphic design, software development, digital marketing, and virtual assistance.
Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and PeoplePerHour allow you to bid on projects that fit your skillset, but many freelancers in the UK also choose to build their own client base through networking and word of mouth. Freelancing gives you flexibility in working hours and location, but it also means managing your own taxes and administration.
Those who go into freelancing in the UK are often considered self-employed, meaning they must register with HMRC and file a self-assessment tax return each year.
Remote Customer Support Roles
Customer support roles have easily made the change to working remotely, with many UK companies now hiring customer service representatives to work from home. These jobs usually involve handling enquiries via phone, email, or live chat.
This role is particularly suitable for those who enjoy problem-solving and have strong communication skills. Many companies offer full training, so prior experience in customer support isn’t always necessary. UK employers are increasingly prioritising work-life balance, making these positions more appealing to jobseekers looking for flexibility.
IT and Tech Roles
The tech industry has had remote workers for a long time, and roles in IT, software development, and web design are still in high demand. These jobs usually need more specialised skills, but they often offer some of the best salaries in the remote working sector.
As a UK-based remote worker, you may find opportunities with UK companies, as well as international organisations. Many UK firms are offering remote roles for developers, systems analysts, and tech support professionals.
Teaching and Tutoring Online
With the rise of online education platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and VIPKid, teaching and tutoring jobs have expanded significantly. Remote teaching roles range from tutoring school-aged children in specific subjects to teaching English as a second language (ESL) to students abroad.
UK professionals with teaching qualifications or subject matter expertise can find plenty of remote teaching opportunities. Some companies require teaching certificates, while others offer in-house training for new tutors.
Remote Sales and Marketing Roles
Sales and marketing are among the fastest-growing sectors for remote jobs. Many companies now hire remote sales representatives, digital marketers, and social media managers to promote their products and services online.
UK professionals with experience in business development, lead generation, or digital marketing can find lucrative remote positions. For those without experience, remote internships and entry-level positions in digital marketing are also widely available.
Navigating Freelancing in the UK
If you’re considering freelancing in the UK, it’s important to understand the responsibilities that come with being self-employed. Freelancers in the UK need to:
Register as Self-Employed: Once you begin earning income from freelancing, you must register with HMRC as self-employed. This includes filing an annual self-assessment tax return to report your income and expenses.
Pay Income Tax and National Insurance: Freelancers must pay income tax and Class 2 and Class 4 National Insurance contributions (NICs) depending on their earnings.
Manage Pension Contributions: Freelancers do not receive automatic pension contributions from an employer, so it’s crucial to set up a personal pension plan to save for retirement.
There are also potential tax benefits for UK freelancers, including the ability to deduct certain business expenses, such as equipment, home office costs, and travel, from your taxable income.
The New UK Employment Rights Bill and Remote Work
The UK government has recognised the growing trend towards remote work and is introducing changes to employment laws to reflect this shift. The Employment Rights (Flexible Working) Bill, which received Royal Assent in July 2023, is set to have a big impact on how employees request flexible and remote working arrangements.
Under the new legislation, all employees in the UK will have the right to request flexible working from day one of their employment, rather than having to wait for six months. This includes options like remote work, hybrid work, or flexible hours. Employers will also be required to respond to flexible working requests within two months, making the process more streamlined and accessible.
This change is expected to open more doors for UK professionals looking to secure remote jobs, as businesses must now seriously consider flexible working arrangements for all employees.
Benefits of Remote Work in the UK
Remote work offers loads of advantages, particularly for UK residents who want to balance their professional and personal lives. Some of the key benefits include:
Increased Flexibility: Remote jobs allow workers to set their own schedules, work from different locations, and reduce commuting time. This flexibility can be especially valuable for parents, caregivers, or those with other commitments.
Better Work-Life Balance: The ability to work from home or any location can improve overall work-life balance, reducing stress and improving mental health.
Access to Global Opportunities: Remote work opens up a global job market, allowing UK professionals to work for international companies or clients. This can increase earning potential and provide a wider variety of career options.
Reduced Costs: Remote workers can save on commuting expenses, lunch costs, and other expenses associated with office life. This can be especially significant in cities like London, where the cost of living is high.
Tips for Finding Remote Jobs in the UK
For jobseekers looking to get a remote job, it’s important to know where to search and how to position yourself. Some tips include:
Use Remote Job Boards: Websites like Remote.co, We Work Remotely, and LinkedIn often feature a range of remote job opportunities specifically targeted at UK professionals.
Tailor Your CV for Remote Roles: Highlight relevant skills, such as time management, self-motivation, and digital communication, to show employers you’re well-suited for remote work.
Network Online: Build connections with other remote workers and potential employers through online communities, LinkedIn groups, and industry-specific forums.
Consider Freelancing Platforms: Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can help UK freelancers build a portfolio and attract international clients.
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So what are you waiting for?
Remote work offers a wealth of opportunities for UK residents, from freelancing and contracting to full-time employment. With the new Employment Rights Bill making flexible working more accessible, it’s an exciting time to explore remote jobs in the UK. By understanding the different types of remote work available and how to navigate freelancing as a UK self-employed worker, jobseekers can unlock a world of possibilities for their careers.
