Gig economy
The “gig economy” refers to a trend away from traditional employment models towards the use of freelance contractors to fulfil short-term projects or “gigs”. It is becoming increasingly prevalent with the advent of technologies that allow freelancers to bid for or otherwise engage clients on a piecemeal basis. Uber, Airbnb and Upwork are all examples of disruptive technologies that are putting clients in touch with service providers in real-time online marketplaces. These pages cover the “Uberisation” of the economy and the employment status of so-called “gig workers”.
Pimlico’s Charlie Mullins: Gig economy reform needed, but don’t vilify us
The name Pimlico Plumbers has become synonymous with the gig economy and workers’ rights over the past eight years. And...
Addison Lee refused permission to appeal worker status ruling
Addison Lee has been denied permission to appeal against the ruling that its drivers are workers and not self-employed.
It...
Courts should fast-track gig economy cases: Frank Field
The exploitation of workers must be tackled quickly and effectively, MP Frank Field has recommended in a new report critical of the length of time cases are taking.
Pimlico Plumbers worker loses his claim for £74,000 in holiday pay
An engineer who won a Supreme Court case against Pimlico Plumbers – establishing that he was a worker and not...
Online activism in the workplace: how should HR respond?
Technology has revolutionised the way many people organise their work and created a debate around employee status. But it is...
Recruitment process outsourcing: the future is ‘total talent’
Employers are battling economic uncertainty but still struggle to source much-needed skills. In such a volatile jobs market, what role...
National Gallery lecturers win ‘worker’ status
A group of art lecturers who lost their jobs at the National Gallery have won their legal fight to be recognised as workers, allowing them to claim certain employment benefits such as holiday pay.
Freelancer platforms add to global work insecurity
The hiring of workers anywhere in the world through global freelancer platforms means that limiting immigration will not necessarily protect...
The Good Work Plan: how should employers prepare?
In December 2018, the government set out the reforms it planned to introduce as part of the Good Work Plan,...
New tech threatens global labour market improvements
Emerging tech-driven business models are partly to blame for millions of people worldwide being forced to accept inadequate working conditions, according to research.
Could Hermes’ self-employed-plus status revolutionise the gig economy?
The creation of a new worker status by courier company Hermes could prove a significant step in the evolution of gig economy workers' rights, argues Mike Hibbs from law firm Shakespeare Martineau.
‘Self-employed plus’ status agreed for Hermes couriers
Delivery firm Hermes has struck a “ground-breaking” deal with the GMB Union to give its couriers the option to receive...
Hipster jobs boost helping to drive the economy
Roles involving beards, tattoos, downward dogs, artisan coffee and no doubt the odd craft beer are playing an increasingly important...
Employee ‘class actions’ on the rise: what does this mean for employers?
The courts have seen a significant rise in the number of employment claims brought by large groups of individuals. The...
Six employment law decisions that will shape 2019
Which employment law decisions will shape 2019? We outline six of the most significant cases in the pipeline – from...
