The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) has announced a significant action involving drivers from Uber, Bolt, and Addison Lee. Scheduled for February 14, from 4 PM to 10 PM, this six-hour strike will see participation from driver groups across major cities including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, and Brighton. The union highlights that many drivers are currently compelled to work between 70 and 80 hours a week just to make ends meet.
Drivers Unite for Fairness
Organizers of the strike aim to foster unity among drivers who are grappling with low pay and precarious working conditions. The IWGB is advocating for improved pay structures, greater job security, and the implementation of essential safety measures. These measures include rider ID verification, complaint tracking systems, and enhanced support for drivers who have experienced assaults.
Nader Awaad, chairman of the IWGB, expressed the collective sentiment of drivers across the country. “Up and down the country, drivers whose lives have been torn apart by apps like Uber are saying the same thing – it’s time for us to take back the wheel,” he stated. Awaad emphasized the vital role that private hire drivers play in the transport ecosystem and their right to fair compensation and job protection. He criticized the soaring profits of the industry, which he claims have come at the expense of drivers, and lamented the lack of support from the government and licensing authorities. “We are left with no choice but to come together and take action ourselves. This log-off has reignited drivers’ faith that by uniting we can transform this industry for the better,” he added.
In response to the upcoming strike, an Addison Lee spokesperson remarked on their strong relationship with drivers, which they believe was reinforced by a recent bi-annual driver satisfaction survey. They expressed confidence that the strike would not disrupt service levels or volumes on the day of action.
Meanwhile, an Uber spokesperson defended the company’s practices, stating that all Uber drivers are guaranteed to earn at least the national living wage during trips, with the company topping up earnings if they fall below this threshold. They highlighted that most drivers earn significantly more and enjoy the flexibility to work on their own terms. Additionally, Uber provides industry-leading rights, including holiday pay and pension benefits, along with formal representation through the GMB Union.
Uber further noted that drivers receive holiday pay weekly as cash, amounting to an additional 12% of their earnings, along with a detailed weekly earnings statement that outlines the distribution of fares collected from riders.
