The Rise of the Self-Employed Woman

The Rise of the Self-Employed Woman: Why More Women are Choosing the VA Path

The landscape of the UK workforce has shifted fundamentally. For over two decades, the number of self-employed individuals has trended upwards, and it is no surprise why. Women, in particular, are rejecting the rigid constraints of traditional employment in favour of the autonomy, flexibility, and purpose found in running their own businesses.

The statistics speak for themselves

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and 2025 Business Population Estimates show that the desire for independence remains a dominant force in the UK economy. As of early 2026, there are approximately 16.7 million women in employment, with a significant and growing portion choosing the self-employed route.

Crucially, women now represent one in three UK entrepreneurs, reflecting a 36% increase in business ownership since 2015. We are no longer just participating in the economy; we are leading the charge in the micro-business and service sectors.

Experience over retirement

An interesting shift is occurring among older demographics. Rather than opting for a traditional retirement, women in their fifties and sixties are pivoting. They are choosing to transition from full-time roles into part-time self-employment to eke out that transition period.

This allows them to retain their professional identity, stay mentally active, and supplement their income without the grind of a nine-to-five. This seasoned expertise is a powerhouse for the UK economy, particularly in the professional and business services sectors where the “feminine touch” and high-level organisational skills are in high demand.

Why the shift? It is about more than just money

Why is being your own boss so popular? According to recent research, it comes down to three core pillars:

• Increased Happiness: Self-employed individuals consistently report higher levels of job satisfaction. When you make the decisions, you are more invested in the outcome.

• Autonomy over Time: Women enter self-employment seeking greater control over working hours (63%) and better work-life balance (55%). For many, the ability to work fewer, more focused hours than their employee counterparts is the ultimate goal.

• Control and Security: In an uncertain economic climate, many women have realised that the only true job security comes from being the CEO of your own life.

Geography and Opportunity

While self-employment remains highly prevalent in London and the South East, accounting for a large share of the UK business population, the rise of the Virtual Assistant industry has levelled the playing field. As a VA, your location is irrelevant. You can support high-level clients from a home office in Cornwall or a kitchen table in Cumbria.

Women want choice, not just a job

Women want to be in control of their careers. They want to choose a niche that suits their specific talents and make lifestyle choices that benefit their families. Whether you are looking to escape the corporate rat race, find a way to work around your children, or ease into a semi-retirement that keeps your brain sharp, becoming a Virtual Assistant is a proven route to achieving that.

Take action today

If you are ready to make the leap from employee to boss, VACT is here to provide the straight-talking, no-nonsense mentorship you need. We support you through the entire process, and yes, you can even start while you are still in your current role.

Ready to see if the VA life is for you?

1. Watch our Start Your VA Business Webinar. You can access the latest recording here to get a clear, honest look at what it takes.

2. Explore our VA Momentum Course. This is the definitive training ground for those serious about building a sustainable, professional business.

Stop waiting for permission to change your life. Take charge of your own destiny.

The days of the rigid nine-to-five are over. More women than ever are choosing self-employment to regain control of their time and their lives. Whether you are a mother looking for flexibility or a professional pivoting away from retirement, the Virtual Assistant industry offers a direct route to being your own boss. No fluff, just honest opportunity. Read the latest blog for the full breakdown of the current UK landscape and how you can get started.

Resources:

House of Commons Library: Women and the UK Economy (Research Briefing, February 2026)

Office for National Statistics (ONS): UK Labour Market Statistics (March 2026)

Department for Business and Trade: Business Population Estimates for the UK and Regions 2025

FSB (Federation of Small Businesses): Small Business Costs Analysis and Confidence Index (April 2026)

Prowess UK / Real Business: State of Women’s Enterprise Report (2025/2026)