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”.
Work no more insecure than 20 years ago
Work in the UK is no more insecure than it was in 1998, despite claims that there has been an...
Businesses may need to compensate workers facing cancelled shifts
The government has announced new proposals of compensation for workers when their shift is cancelled at short notice
How employees are using social activism to make their voices heard
With traditional union membership in decline, employees are finding new ways to voice their opposition to corporate decisions, as shown...
Gig economy doubles in three years
One in 10 working-age adults in the UK work on gig economy platforms, double the number who did so in 2016.
Employees keen to get to grips with future of work
Companies need to do more to prepare employees for the future of work – but employees have a “keen sense...
Amazon offers workers thousands to set up own delivery businesses
Amazon is offering its employees thousands of pounds in funding to set up independent delivery businesses.
The company has said...
Uber not complying with GDPR requests say drivers
Uber drivers are threatening to take legal action over claims the company has refused to disclose the personal data it...
Addison Lee drivers strike over ‘below minimum wage’ pay
The first ever strike involving Addison Lee drivers takes place today (1 May), when drivers operating from Luton Airport take...
What challenges will HR face in the next 10 years?
Making predictions for the workplace is fraught with risk but Emma Shipp and Lynne Adams take a punt on technological change, new legislation, societal trends and, yes, Brexit, to lay out the likely challenges...
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...
