Of course it is “voluntarily” to submit to such searches. But if you don’t comply and give them your password, they will deny entry.
As a non-resident foreigner, you don’t have many rights.
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It must be legal under “special” circumstances, I assume, because they do it. As soon as they suspect you might be trying to enter the country for reasons other than what you’ve stated and don’t have the correct visa (for example, if they suspect you intend to work but want to enter the country on a tourist visa), they’ll search your phone for clues. They’ll be looking for emails or messages with potential employers or conversations with friends regarding work.
Do not use the letter, i entered with no issues. I told them I’m a tourist which was true because 3/4 of the time i was…vwith gaps between sits. Also, I flew from Canada via Dublin and went through immigration in Dublin, it literally took one minute. From there to Edinburgh where there was no immigration. I’m from the states but i was in Toronto for.a bit prior to heading to the UK. I also deleted any potential evidence off my phone as a precaution, yet had no issues.
That is true, I can vouch for that as an American. However, I just returned from 4 month’s abroad to Boston, and all he asked
me was if I had anything to declare and I flew through. I was surprised that Boston Logan airport customs did not have kiosks as many other airports.
If you arrive from Ireland, they will not check your passport.
You could always fly to Ireland and then take another flight to the UK from there. 
I am a UK citizen and travelled in the last year few times between the UK and Germany for pet sitting. I’ve never been asked the reason of my travels, just when i plan to leave. I never tell that im petsitting, if anyone asks - i say just going to meet with a family and friends.
I also read at the beginning of my petsitting experience that even a voluntary work is considered a work and borders can stop you for that. So never mention THS.
I would not worry at all. I’m from the Netherlands. Have been in & out of the UK multiple times since Brexit for petsitting reasons only. No one ever asks anything