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”.
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...
The 10 most important employment law cases in 2018
As always, HR professionals had their fair share of employment law cases to keep track of in 2018, but what...
Deliveroo and Uber Eats face questions over worker black market
The way that Deliveroo and Uber Eats engage their riders and drivers’ has come under fresh scrutiny after claims emerged...
Uber drivers are workers, Court of Appeal rules
The Court of Appeal has upheld the ruling that Uber drivers are workers and should receive entitlements such as holiday...
Ireland on track to end zero-hour contracts
The Irish government has said it will end most zero-hour contracts in the country by summer as its Employment (Miscellaneous...
Largest university in UK hit by boycott over outsourced staff
Academics, students and leading politicians have launched a boycott of the University of London in support of outsourced workers
High Court upholds Deliveroo self-employment and collective bargaining ruling
The High Court has held that Deliveroo riders are self-employed and cannot form a collective bargaining unit.
The Independent Workers...
One-HR employment law review (webinar)
Last chance to book your place: 6 December 2018 at 2pm. Barrister Kevin Charles scrutinises the latest developments in employment law including whistleblowing, minimum wage and more...
Top 10 HR questions November 2018: employee or worker?
A number of recent employment tribunal cases have dealt with the employment status of people working in the “gig economy”....
‘Total talent management’ could solve the productivity puzzle
Faced with uncertain access to labour and the need to reskill workers in the coming years, how can organisations take...
