@Katherine630
Katherine, I think what you are referring to is what is classified as 'Cottage industry'.
If you have no other source of income there are certain benefits attached to operating as a cottage industry.
There is in most countries a tax threshold and you are allowed to earn up to a certain amount of money by operating a 'cottage industry' before you need to declare your earnings for taxation purposes.
In Australia the tax free threshold for seniors like me is $32,279 per year. For younger people the tax free threshold is $20,542.
I believe in Britain, under the 'rent a room scheme' you can currently earn £7,500 before you need to declare what you are doing and you have a tax free threshold of £12,500 before you become a tax payer.
https://www.gov.uk/rent-room-in-your-home/the-rent-a-room-scheme
Now I am not an accountant Katherine, I have no knowledge of your circumstance or the earning declaration laws in Britain and what I say here is not be used as a basis for your financial dealings with the government, be it local or national.
You need to consult an accountant in your district to ascertain your benefits and liabilities under British taxation law.
Cheers........Rob