As a UK freelancer, you juggle multiple responsibilities: finding clients, delivering work, managing admin—and answering every call that might be a new opportunity. But using your personal mobile for work calls isn’t ideal. It blurs boundaries, impacts privacy, and makes switching off harder than it should be.
Enter virtual phone number apps. These tools let you create a second number that works right from your smartphone, helping you stay professional, protect your privacy, and streamline communication.
In this article, we’ll explore the best virtual number apps for UK freelancers in 2025—including a standout local solution built just for you: Another Number by Thumbtel.
What Is a Virtual Phone Number and Why Do Freelancers Need One?
A virtual phone number is a real, functioning number that isn’t tied to a physical SIM card or landline. Instead, it operates via a mobile or desktop app over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Why freelancers love them:
- Work/life separation: Keep your personal number private
- Professional image: Present a dedicated business number to clients
- Call control: Block spam, screen calls, and set work hours
- Business use: Register with HMRC or Companies House
If you’re using one phone for everything, a second number is one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
Best Virtual Phone Number Apps in the UK for Freelancers (2025)
| App | UK Numbers | Call Forwarding | Voicemail | Pricing | iOS/Android | Best For |
| Another Number (Thumbtel) | ✅ Yes | ✅ | ✅ Transcription | £4.99/mo | ✅ / ✅ | Work/life balance |
| eReceptionist | ✅ Yes | ✅ | ✅ | £9.95/mo+ | ✅ / ✅ | Call routing for SMEs |
| Hushed | ✅ Yes | Limited | ✅ | ~$3.99/mo | ✅ / ✅ | Budget option |
| Google Voice | ❌ (No UK) | ✅ | ✅ | Free (US only) | ✅ / ✅ | US freelancers only |
| Sonetel | ✅ Yes | ✅ | ❌ | Free-£9/mo | ✅ / ✅ | Global freelancers |
Why Another Number Is Ideal for UK Freelancers
Developed by UK-based Thumbtel, Another Number is designed with freelancers and self-employed professionals in mind. Unlike global services that may lack local relevance, this app ticks every box for UK-specific needs.
Key Benefits:
- Instant UK mobile number with 07 prefix
- Voicemail transcription and call screening
- Block nuisance calls and manage your hours
- Affordable flat monthly rate with no contracts
- Works over Wi-Fi or mobile data – no second SIM needed
✨ “Try Another Number free for 7 days – stay professional, stay private.”
Explore the app here →
What to Look for in a Virtual Number App as a Freelancer
Before you pick your tool, here’s a quick checklist of what to consider:
- ✅ Local UK mobile number
- ✅ Reliable call quality
- ✅ Voicemail (with transcription if possible)
- ✅ Flexible call forwarding
- ✅ iOS and Android support
- ✅ GDPR-compliant data policies
- ✅ Affordable, contract-free pricing
Thumbtel’s Another Number meets all these criteria — while keeping things simple and freelancer-friendly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a freelancer in the UK, there’s no need to use your personal mobile for everything anymore. Virtual numbers offer flexibility, privacy, and a more polished presence to clients.
Among all the options out there, Another Number stands out as the best virtual phone number app for UK freelancers in 2025. It’s built locally, competitively priced, and tailored for exactly what you need.
📱 Ready to separate work from personal?
Start your free trial of Another Number today →
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