https://www.bristol.ac.uk/news/2023/may/gig-economy-worker-research.html
'As the cost of living continues to spiral, a new report shows more than half
of gig economy workers in the UK are paid below the minimum wage.
The first-of-its-kind study, led by the University of Bristol, found 52% of gig
workers doing jobs ranging from data entry to food delivery were earning below
the minimum wage. On average respondents were earning £8.97 per hour – around
15% below the current UK minimum wage, which rose to £10.42 this month.
More than three-quarters (76%) of survey respondents also experienced
work-related insecurity and anxiety.
Lead author Dr Alex Wood, Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management and
Future of Work at the University of Bristol Business School, said: "The
findings highlight that working in the UK gig economy often entails low pay,
anxiety, and stress. As food, fuel and housing costs keep rising, this group of
workers are especially vulnerable and need to be more adequately remunerated
and better protected."
Equally concerning, more than a quarter (28%) felt they were risking their
health or safety in doing gig work and a quarter (25%) experienced pain on the
job.
When asked what would improve their situation, basic rights such as minimum
wage rates, holiday and sick pay, and protection against unfair dismissal were
most wanted.
Unions and platform councils (similar to works councils that exist in some
European countries) to represent their needs and help influence how gig economy
platforms operate and affect their working conditions also featured on their
wish list. More than three-quarters of respondents believed the introduction of
such bodies would bring immediate benefits.'
Via Diane A.
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
