^{Should You Consider Freelancing in the Equine Industry?}

If you’re considering making the leap into freelance equine work, chances are it’s because something in your current role doesn’t quite sit right.

Maybe it’s the relentless hours that leave you exhausted before the sun is even up. Maybe it’s the pay that doesn’t reflect the sweat you put in. Or maybe it’s the atmosphere on the yard.

People are realising that freelancing isn't just a career change; it’s an act of empowerment. But to make it work, you have to approach it with your eyes wide open.

The Moment You Realise You Have a Choice

The biggest shift in going freelance isn't just about your bank account. It’s about your mindset.

When you’re a full-time employee at one yard, it’s easy to feel stuck. In a difficult environment, you might find yourself tolerating behavior you shouldn't or accepting pay that undervalues your expertise. You tell yourself, "That’s just how this industry is."

Freelancing shatters that illusion.

The moment you become your own boss, you realise you are no longer tied to a toxic or disrespectful environment. If a client pushes your boundaries or fails to show respect, you have the ultimate power: the ability to walk away. You are not dependent on a single employer, and that freedom can feel great.

Exploitation Isn’t "Part of the Job"

Let’s be honest: exploitation in the equine industry is real. Passion is frequently used as a weapon against professionals. We’ve all heard it: "We do it for the love of the horses," usually said right before asking you for an extra two hours of unpaid labour.

As a freelancer, you will meet people who:

• Try to haggle your hourly rate.
• Assume you’ll stay late "just to finish off" for free.
• Think "self-employed" means being flexible for their schedule, not yours.

Here’s the hard truth: You are not "just helping." You are providing a professional service. You wouldn't expect a qualified electrician to undercut their rates because they "love wiring houses," and you shouldn't be expected to do the same. Professionalism earns professional pay.

Pricing for Survival vs. Pricing for Success

This is where many new freelancers stumble. They undercharge out of fear, thinking they’ll "put the rates up later." But self-employed income is fundamentally different from a salary.

When you set your rate, you aren't just paying for your time. You are covering:

• Tax and National Insurance.
• Your own pension and "holiday pay."
• Professional insurance and equipment.
• Travel and vehicle maintenance.

If you charge the same hourly rate as an employee, you are actually earning significantly less. At TallyHO Temps, we refuse to market any freelancer offering services below minimum wage.

The industry only improves when we refuse to undervalue ourselves.

The Golden Rule: If you price yourself too low, you attract clients who don't value you. If you price yourself fairly, you attract the clients who do.

Ending the Battle for Your Own Money

Nothing chips away at your confidence like chasing a late payment. The awkward "just checking in" texts and the "I'll transfer it later" excuses are exhausting.

This is why we’ve changed the game. Through TallyHO Temps, clients pay in advance. The funds are secured before you even put your boots on. Once the job is completed, the money is released. No reminders, no awkwardness, no stress. You do the work; you get paid. Period.

Is Freelancing Right for You?

There is no "right" answer, only the answer that's right for you.

Full-Time Employment

Benefits: Predictable income, sick pay, less admin.

Drawbacks: Less autonomy, potential for stagnation.

You Get    Security

Freelance Professional

Benefits: High flexibility, variety, control.

Drawback: No "guaranteed" work, no sick or holiday pay, more admin.

You Get   Autonomy

The Bottom Line

If you choose the freelance path, don’t just drift into it. Be intentional. Set your standards early, price yourself correctly, and work with yards that respect your skill set.

Loving horses should never mean accepting less than you deserve. Freelancing, when done properly, is the moment you finally realise your own worth.

The TallyHO Promise: We believe that loving horses shouldn’t mean sacrificing your financial stability or your mental health. We’re here to ensure you get the freedom you want with the security you deserve.

Join TallyHO Temps Today

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