28th August 2009, 02:45 PM
well they've certainly kicked off with a bang. I hope that the information is reliable (the basic facts of the day rate are still on the web, google it) and that the unit in question, and maybe the IFA were asked to comment. It is very important to get the facts straight.
As a freelancer myself, and knowing a lot of others, I'd heard of the adverts in question and wondered about the pay, and legality. Anyone tempted to work for this little should seriously look at how much it will actually mean in your pocket. And you'll definitely need insurance, and that is normally only available for a 12 month period. I can unfortunately see the attraction to students seeking experience (although the advert wants 6 months experience) and students don't usually pay tax (but need to pay NI I believe?).
Other 'units' taking on self-employed diggers pay at least ?100 a day, which is still probably too low to meet IFA minima over the year after real expenses if you are really self-employed.
To make it clear, ?67.50 per day, over a 230 day working year, is only ?15,525 a year. That is working every single weekday bar bank holidays and 20 days holiday and a nominal 3 days sick. From this turnover must be paid TAX, NI ( alot more than employees NI subs), Insurance, tools and clothing, travel expenses, accomodation expenses, accountant, professional memberships, bank charges....you've also got to pay for your own holiday (dropping your hourly rate) as that isn't paid, and if you get sick, you get nothing without insurance (which costs more). And if it rains, or the site can't be worked, you may be lucky and get a half days payment, but you may be told to go home for the week.
A good deal?
As a freelancer myself, and knowing a lot of others, I'd heard of the adverts in question and wondered about the pay, and legality. Anyone tempted to work for this little should seriously look at how much it will actually mean in your pocket. And you'll definitely need insurance, and that is normally only available for a 12 month period. I can unfortunately see the attraction to students seeking experience (although the advert wants 6 months experience) and students don't usually pay tax (but need to pay NI I believe?).
Other 'units' taking on self-employed diggers pay at least ?100 a day, which is still probably too low to meet IFA minima over the year after real expenses if you are really self-employed.
To make it clear, ?67.50 per day, over a 230 day working year, is only ?15,525 a year. That is working every single weekday bar bank holidays and 20 days holiday and a nominal 3 days sick. From this turnover must be paid TAX, NI ( alot more than employees NI subs), Insurance, tools and clothing, travel expenses, accomodation expenses, accountant, professional memberships, bank charges....you've also got to pay for your own holiday (dropping your hourly rate) as that isn't paid, and if you get sick, you get nothing without insurance (which costs more). And if it rains, or the site can't be worked, you may be lucky and get a half days payment, but you may be told to go home for the week.
A good deal?