Almost half (47%) of UK contractors have seen no change in their rates of pay over the past six months, while 18% have experienced hikes, according to a survey of 1,000 contractors by contractor accountancy firm SJD Accountancy.

The survey also finds that three-quarters are positive about the outlook of the contractor market.

Overall, 57% of respondents say that working as a contractor improved their work/life balance and 76% don’t miss the benefits of being an employee.

In fact, over 90% say they earn more than they did as a permanent employee. A third were earning over £500 per day and a further third between £400 and £500.