Charlotte shares side hustles to try this summer holidays
When I was a teen, many of my sighted peers at school were getting weekend jobs: stacking shelves, working as baristas, waiting tables. But as someone with no useful vision, none of those jobs were accessible. I ended up receiving Universal Credit which provided me with a small monthly income. It meant I could spend money on things like new clothes or eating out. Having said that, the whole application process was pretty laborious, and now that I look back, I wish I’d thought about other opportunities earlier.
Work isn’t just about earning money; it helps build confidence, independence, and well-being, whilst giving you something to focus on. If you’re after a side hustle this summer, here are some ideas that could work for you and your needs.
1. Accessibility User Testing
If you’re good at using screen readers, you can get paid to test websites, apps and devices. Fable and AbilityNet are great organisations who are always on the lookout for new disabled testers. You may find most opportunities are for those over 18. However, there are projects from time to time that accept under 18s too.
2. Get Creative!
Do you love making arts and crafts? Why not turn your passion into profit? Platforms like Etsy make it easy for creative individuals to sell a wide variety of handmade items, from jewelry and greeting cards to pottery and beyond. You might also find opportunities to showcase your work at local markets or craft fairs.
3. Teach What You Know
Turn your knowledge into cash. Tutoring is a flexible, rewarding way to earn extra money. If you’re confident in subjects like English, History, or Languages, you can help younger students with revision, online or in person.
Alternatively, if music’s more your thing, teaching beginners an instrument is a fantastic way to inspire and earn. All it takes is patience, confidence, and a passion for helping others learn.
Top tip: share your services in local Facebook groups or parent networks.
4. Bake Off!
Got skills in the kitchen? Whip up your best brownies or cupcakes and sell them at local bake sales! You can even take custom orders for birthdays and parties.
5. Share Your Views
Yep, you heard it right. You can actually get paid for sharing your opinions! It’s super simple: just sign up with a legit market research company and you could be invited to take part in online surveys or even in-person focus groups on all sorts of topics like tech, food, beauty and more.
If you’re under 18, you’ll need permission from a parent or guardian. And be smart about it: not all companies are the real deal. Always do your homework to make sure they’re legit before signing up. Some of the most trusted names in the game include Saros Research, Angelfish Opinions, and Research Opinions.
6. Get Paid to Write
Got a way with words? Whether you’re into creative writing, opinion pieces, or quirky blog posts, there are loads of youth-focused magazines and websites out there looking for fresh voices like yours! To pitch your work, just send a short and friendly email to the editor. Explain your idea, why it’s relevant, and why you are the right person to write it. In order to stand out, think creatively! Come up with unique angles or topics that haven’t been widely covered. And make sure you read the publication first! It helps to know what kind of content they usually publish.
Another way to earn from your writing is Substack. It’s a platform where you can create your own newsletter, build an audience, and even make money through paid subscriptions. Writers, journalists, and content creators are all using it to share their voices, and get paid doing it.
7. Become an Influencer
This path takes time, commitment and a bit of luck, but if you’re already into posting on social media, becoming a content creator or influencer could be a fun way to earn some cash. As you build your following, brands might start reaching out to you for sponsored posts, free products, or collabs.
Top tip: there are countless influencers on Instagram and TikTok, but the secret to standing out is simple – just be you. Nobody else has your exact style or voice, and that’s your superpower. Post about what you actually love, and chances are, your followers will connect with it too.
