Shifting from a permanent role to contract work is a bold move—and one that’s increasingly being embraced by health and safety professionals across the UK. In today’s volatile economic and political climate, where rising NICs, stagnant salaries, and limited job security are real concerns, contracting offers a compelling alternative.
Far from being a fallback, contract work allows professionals to take control of their careers, tap into new earning potential, and specialise in areas they’re passionate about. Whether you're struggling to find the right permanent opportunity or simply ready for more autonomy and variety, contracting could be the next exciting step in your career.
Understand the Benefits of Contracting
The appeal of contract work lies not just in flexibility but in the opportunity it provides to shape your own path. Some of the key benefits include:
Higher Earning Potential: Contractors typically command higher day rates compared to equivalent permanent roles, especially when bringing in-demand expertise to the table.
Flexibility and Control: Choose when, where, and how you work. You can plan contracts around your life, not the other way around.
Work-Life Balance: Take breaks between contracts, pursue personal interests, or simply enjoy time with family without navigating formal holiday policies.
Professional Growth and Variety: Contracting exposes you to a wide range of industries and projects, helping you build a more dynamic and resilient skill set.
Opportunities to Specialise: Contractors can focus on niche areas such as CDM compliance, fire safety, or environmental permitting, enhancing your reputation as a subject matter expert.
Broader Job Security: With demand across multiple sectors, contractors often enjoy greater security than those relying on a single employer.
Build a Strong Foundation
Success in contracting starts with preparation. Before making the leap, take the time to assess and strengthen your foundation:
Evaluate Your Skills: Pinpoint the areas where you excel, such as risk assessments, audits, or compliance leadership. Think about how your experience translates across industries.
Fill Knowledge Gaps: If you’re missing critical qualifications like NEBOSH, IOSH, or sector-specific accreditations, now’s the time to pursue them.
Financial Planning: It’s wise to have savings in place to cover potential gaps between assignments. A financial cushion will give you peace of mind as you build momentum.
Tailor Your CV and LinkedIn for Contract Success
Your CV is a marketing tool—make it work hard for you. Focus on achievements, not just responsibilities. Highlight how you’ve delivered value on past projects, adapted quickly, or hit the ground running.
Your LinkedIn profile should reflect the same. Make sure it’s up-to-date, clearly outlines your availability, and features endorsements or case studies where possible. Don’t be afraid to post updates and share insights to increase your visibility.
Leverage Your Network and Specialist Recruiters
Networking is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. Reach out to former colleagues and industry contacts, and let them know you’re available for contract opportunities. Attend industry events, webinars, and online forums to meet new contacts and stay on top of sector developments.
Partnering with a specialist agency like Irwin and Colton can also be a game-changer. We work exclusively within the Health, Safety, and Environment space, and regularly support professionals in securing high-quality contract roles tailored to their skill sets.
Opportunities Across Key Sectors
We’re seeing strong and sustained demand for contractors in several high-growth areas:
Construction: Project-specific roles are ideal for contractors, who can dip in and out during key phases to support site safety, CDM compliance, and project audits.
Manufacturing: Short-term expertise is often needed during renovations or compliance checks, especially around COSHH, machinery safety, and ISO implementation.
Corporate: There’s an increasing need for building and fire safety specialists in office and corporate environments, particularly following changes in legislation.
Environmental & Waste Management: With seasonal biodiversity projects and tighter regulation on environmental permits, this is an ideal sector for specialists in ecology, permitting, or sustainability.
Understand the Business Side of Contracting
Contracting means operating like a business. Key considerations include:
Limited vs Umbrella Company: Decide how you’ll work. A limited company offers more control, while umbrella companies handle payroll, tax, and compliance on your behalf.
Understand IR35: This tax legislation affects whether you're classed as employed or self-employed for each assignment. Understanding whether contracts are "inside" or "outside" IR35 is crucial for managing your income and obligations.
Professional Tools: You will also need indemnity insurance, employers’ liability and public liability, maybe an accountant, and well-drafted contracts to protect your interests.
How Irwin and Colton Can Support Your Transition
We’ve helped many health and safety professionals successfully transition into contract roles. From understanding IR35 to tailoring your CV, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to explore what contract work could look like for you or just want to understand the market better, reach out to our team.
Oscar Dale – Consultant (Contract & Interim)
oscar.dale@irwinandcolton.com
01923 432673