If you have traveled around London recently, you may have noticed that there are a huge number of cycling delivery services operating in and around the city. This is part of the gig economy, which is a growing method of employment. Research has now shown that there has been a 72% increase in this type of employment in the past 7 years.
This type of work relies on casual contracts, and individuals choosing to make a living in this way are often able to find their work via apps that specialise in exactly this industry. The apps match up individuals who, for example, are looking for somebody to deliver something, with people who are searching for casual work. It means that individuals can choose the amount that they work, and their working hours, which brings with it a great deal of flexibility.
Across the country, there was a 28% increase in the number of “non-employing businesses” – which are businesses that don’t have official members of staff on their payroll. In London, however, it seems that the rise was steeper than other areas in the country.
However, this is not without concern. In the UK, there is an element of worry with regards to job security, and because casual work comes without a contract, this does nothing to counteract these concerns. It means that although individuals are able to work, they have little control over the type of work they do, and the availability of this work. Moreover, by choosing to work in this way, they are also denying themselves rights such as pension, holiday pay, and a reliable, regular wage.
Chancellor Philip Hammond has strongly suggested that the current tax system needs to be updated in order to keep up with all movement in employment trends, to ensure that all workers are catered for by the system. A lot of scrutiny has surrounded taxi service Uber relating to the employment status of its workers, and much discussion has followed regarding the balance between individuals wishing to work in a flexible role, and having access to important employment benefits.
Considering that this type of work is predicted to continue rising in the future, it is certain that it calls for some change in the current system, to ensure that all workers are taken care of, no matter what their employment status.