At Devonshire, we have dedicated consultants who are always looking for freelancers in the creative, presentation, content and marketing sectors. If you have ever questioned “Is freelancing right for me?” read on…
What Is Freelancing?
Freelancers are self-employed professionals who work for different clients on a short-term or project basis. Unlike employees, they’re responsible for their own finances, schedule, and client relationships.
If you’re a presentation designer, campaign specialist, or branding expert, freelancing can offer freedom, variety and great rates. But it also means doing your own admin, marketing yourself, and managing any quiet patches between projects.
🎯 Quick Snapshot:
| Freelancing | Permanent Role | |
| Income | Often higher day rates, but less stable | Consistent monthly salary |
| Flexibility | You choose when/where/how to work | Set hours, limited time off |
| Benefits | No sick/holiday pay or pension | Holiday, sick leave & pension provided |
| Tax | You manage your own tax | Employer handles PAYE & NI |
| Security | Project-based; no job guarantee | Greater long-term stability |
| Creative Variety | Broader project mix and clients | Steadier work with one brand/team |
Why People Go Freelance
- Potential to Earn More
Freelancers can often charge a premium for their skills, especially in fast-moving areas like digital marketing, brand design, and pitch support. If you’re in-demand, freelancing may pay more than a salaried role. - Total Flexibility
You control your schedule – work from wherever, take time off between projects, and choose how many hours you put in. - Variety and Skill Growth
Freelancing exposes you to different brands, briefs and sectors, helping you build a varied portfolio and grow professionally, fast. - More Autonomy
You choose who you work with and the type of work you do. If a client isn’t a good fit, you can walk away.
The Challenges to Be Aware Of
- No Guaranteed Income
There may be gaps between projects, so you’ll need to budget wisely and plan ahead — especially for holidays or slower months. - No Employee Benefits
Freelancers don’t receive paid holiday, sick leave, or employer pension contributions. You’ll need to factor those into your rate. - You’re Your Own Business
That means chasing invoices, submitting tax returns, promoting yourself, and managing client relationships — all while doing the actual work.
What About IR35?
If you freelance through a limited company (Ltd), you need to know about IR35, HMRC’s tax legislation designed to distinguish genuine freelancers from disguised employees.
- Inside IR35: Treated like an employee for tax; income subject to PAYE
- Outside IR35: Treated as self-employed; more tax flexibility
Many roles in the creative and marketing space — especially freelance projects or short-term gaps — are clearly outside IR35; however, longer engagements may require additional checks.
We work with clients and freelancers to clarify IR35 status before a contract begins, so there are no surprises.
How Devonshire Supports Freelancers
We have trusted and results-focused clients across the creative, presentations, content and marketing sectors, all actively seeking freelance support. Whether it’s delivering standout campaigns, pitch-perfect decks or compelling content, our clients turn to our experienced freelancers who bring fresh thinking, flexibility and technical expertise to every project. We specialise in freelance roles across:
- Presentation Design
- Creative & Branding
- Marketing & Campaigns
- Content & Copy
Whether you’re looking to freelance for the first time or already established, we connect you to great brands and support you throughout the process, from onboarding and IR35 guidance to timely payment.
Thinking about freelancing?
We’d love to hear from you. Check out our latest freelance opportunities or contact our team at [email protected].