By Emma Simpson, Business correspondent, BBC News

Earning a bit of additional spending money used to be an optional extra for most people. But the recession has made it a necessity for thousands. And a growing band of people are either boosting their salaries or replacing lost income by working from home.

During the last recession, most people had never heard of the internet. This time round, though, there is a lot more technology available - and it's helping lots of workers survive the downturn.

Edward Moss was made redundant last year. He managed to find a new job organising education material for schools. But he took a big drop in income. During the week, he lives with his dad in Manchester, close to his work. He commutes home to Leeds at the weekend to see his family.

It's been a dramatic change in lifestyle. And now, the work doesn't stop when he gets home from the office.

70% of the people who are now on our site have either been made redundant or are 'five to niners', working round the clock to enhance their income