Are Senior Freelancers Over 50 Driving AI Use In The UK?

It seems like the idea that older working professionals aren’t so much in touch with tech is being challenged because new reports show that senior freelancers are some of the most “strategically valuable talent pools in the UK”. This comes from Malt and IPSE – the Self-Employment Association’s recent Senior Freelancer Trends Report.

Quentin Debavelaere, General Manager at Malt UK, said: “Senior freelancing is becoming a defining feature of the UK labour market. People in their fifties and sixties are rethinking how they work, not just due to personal circumstances, but also because freelancing lets them stay engaged on their own terms.”

The report found that 44% of freelancers over the age of 50 use AI on a daily basis, for starters. One would assume that the older generations would be less likely to use AI, but the numbers say otherwise…

The report pointed out how this can be tied to the fact that older professionals have seen different waves of tech come and go. This makes it much easier to make a decision when it comes to trusting each incoming wave. Reports say older professionals are actually early adopters of AI tools used in different stages of the creation process.

What About Retirement And Senior Workers?

You might be wondering why older people in their 50s and 60s are working, and why freelancing… One would assume it’s because older workers cannot get jobs as easily, but you’d be mistaken. It seems that older generations are looking to extend their working lives, and freelancing is a model that gives them their freedom and on their terms… 63% of them confirm this.

They chose freelancing because it gives them a sense of autonomy and choice over what they contribute. In fact, 51% of the surveyed say they would continue freelancing, even after retirement. Only 21% report to have chosen freelancing because they really had to.

The report implied that businesses might really need freelancers more, actually. Debavelaere added: “This year’s Budget adds another layer of pressure for businesses. With national insurance already having had a massive impact last year and more responsibilities and constraints coming, many companies will face even less flexibility in how they operate. When uncertainty rises and hiring becomes harder, organisations turn to experienced freelancers to keep the light on until they have more visibility.”

How Are Senior Workers’ Skills Used?

Companies are actually actively hiring senior freelancers. 42% report that at least 75% of their projects involve strategic planning, consulting or leadership responsibilities. The years of experience makes it easier for senior freelancers to spot risks and create efficient strategies.

Vicks Rodwell, Managing Director at IPSE, said: “Still, many freelancers above 50 years old face the frustration of being underestimated because of their age, despite the fact that they represent one of the most skilled and committed parts of the UK’s flexible workforce. This report challenges outdated assumptions head-on and shows a group of professionals who are choosing independence, embracing new technologies, investing in their skills and shaping the future of work. If the UK wants a labour market that supports innovation and inclusive growth, we need to recognise the value senior freelancers bring and treat them accordingly.”

As Rodwell mentioned, senior professionals are always working on upskilling – even with all the experience. The report says 53% improve on skills for about 6 hours a week, a testament to the dedication. 17% of them go above 8 hours a week.

“The UK cannot afford to overlook this talent pool. Senior freelancers combine strategic expertise, operational maturity and a strong appetite for learning – exactly what organisations need when cost savings, flexibility and clarity matter most,” concluded Debavelaere.