More protection needed for the UK’s gig workers

With the gig economy continuing to thrive, latest research has shown that there is a need for greater protection for these types of workers. The survey, carried out by totaljobs, questioned nearly 5,000 workers and 100 businesses and found that 90% of employees and 87% of employers believe that more protection is needed for those working within the gig economy. It has been estimated that there are around 5 million people in the UK working in the gig economy – 43% of businesses said they currently employ gig workers and 45% of those who don’t, said that they will in the future. Of the gig workers surveyed, 35% said that their reason for choosing this method of working was because of the flexibility, 32% said that they couldn’t find permanent work and 22% said that they did it in order to gain more experience in a different industry.

David Clift, HR director at totaljobs, commented on the findings, “It’s great to see that employers and employees are united in calling for broader rights and protections for those working within the gig economy. Public awareness of the gig economy focuses primarily on courier services and drivers, but it’s vital to remember that more and more people from a wide range of sectors are adopting flexible working options. “With the Taylor Review highlighting the issue some four months ago, our research shows that all sides are on the same page, and waiting on ministers to make improvements to protect freelance, contract and zero-hours workers.” To find out more about contracting please contact Lauren on 01442 795100 or email lauren.monks@dolanaccountancy.com.