Best side hustles in the UK: where does becoming a UW Partner fit?
By Scott McCaw, independent authorised UW Partner · Reviewed 25 September 2026
There's no single best side hustle. The right one depends on the time you have, what you enjoy and how much uncertainty you can live with. The UW Partner route suits people who like talking with others about household bills; it won't suit everyone, and earnings are never guaranteed.
Comparing some common options
Freelancing a skill you already have (writing, design, bookkeeping): low start-up cost, paid for delivered work, but you need to find clients and set your own rates.
Selling online (crafts, second-hand items): flexible hours, but you carry stock, postage and platform fees, and sales can be unpredictable.
Delivery and task apps: quick to start and paid per job, but you usually need a vehicle or bike, and pay depends on demand in your area.
Tutoring or coaching: steady if you have the qualifications and a regular timetable, but tied to fixed session times.
UW Partner: a small joining fee paid to UW and no stock. The work is conversations with people you know and meet about their household services. Income depends on customers qualifying under UW's terms, so some Partners earn little or nothing.
When the Partner route might fit
If you're comfortable starting conversations, can put aside regular hours each week, and want something you can build gradually, it's worth a look. If you need a predictable weekly wage, a paid job or tutoring is likely a better fit.
When the Connector route might fit instead
If you already meet homeowners through your work but don't want to discuss services yourself, the free Connector route lets you introduce them, with permission, and leave the conversation to a Partner.
What UW means by a "Mii"
UW uses "Mii" to mean multi-income individual: someone with a second income alongside their main one. UW's 2023 research with Cebr covered all kinds of second jobs and side hustles, not just UW. Its average figures are not what a UW Partner should expect to earn.
Tax and self-employment
Most side hustles, including the UW Partner route, make you self-employed for that income. You're responsible for your own tax and National Insurance, and HMRC's trading allowance rules may apply.
Scott's practical tip: Pick the side hustle that matches the hours you can really give, not the one with the biggest headline figure.
Sources: UW Partner information · UW and Cebr Mii research (2023) · GOV.UK: tax-free trading allowance