Rising consumer inflation has prompted thousands of British workers to take on second jobs, according to new figures from PeoplePerHour.com.
It found that 35 per cent of its freelance workers also have full-time jobs, which it claims is a growing number, Personnel Today reports.
Many households have been hit by rising inflation in recent months, which is being fuelled by rising food and fuel prices.
The website's founder Xenios Thrasyvoulou told Personnel Today: "On regular salaries, skilled professionals are struggling to make ends meet."
He added that "it's little wonder increasing numbers of them are harnessing their experience and skills to offer freelance services outside office hours".
With prime minister Gordon Brown calling on employers not to offer pay rises that match the rate of inflation, more people may be forced to take on second jobs.