Stories

Mon, 20 Apr 2026

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 The 20-somethings juggling three jobs to make ends meet

While UK unemployment is at a five-year-high, increasing numbers of those in work have more than one job.
A record 1.35 million adults in the UK are working at least two jobs, with most being young people aged 29 or under. This "poly-employment" trend is driven by the increasing cost of living and mortgages, leaving many people no choice but to juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet. Ashlin McCourt, a 28-year-old civil servant from Northern Ireland, works 60 hours a week in three different roles: as a civil servant, waitress, and baker. She says "life's so expensive" and that she doesn't even know when she's tired or stressed anymore. According to Deputy, a global workforce management platform, the number of people working multiple jobs is at an all-time high. The main reasons for taking on extra work are financial pressures, with many households struggling to pay off debt and save for the future. Cait Yardy, 27, from London works three jobs: as a supermarket worker, private tutor, and social media content creator. She says that working multiple jobs has allowed her to balance childcare responsibilities while also paying off debt and saving for a house. However, she admits that it's tough on family time and can be exhausting. Other young people profiled in the article include Chloe Mayhew, 27, from Glasgow, who works as a freelance graphic designer, teacher, and care home worker; and Haylii, 22, from Essex, who earns most of her income from social media content creation but also works part-time in hospitality. Experts warn that while taking on multiple jobs can provide benefits such as work experience and learning new skills, there is a risk of overworking and damaging wellbeing. Dr Paul Redmond, an expert on generational change and the future of work, says: "As long as a balance can be achieved, there are benefits to part-time working." However, he warns that young people should be careful not to take on too much work and prioritize their mental health.