As couples nationwide prepare for intimate Valentine’s Day dinners at home, a looming strike threatens to disrupt the evening’s plans for many. A significant number of takeaway delivery drivers, integral to the festivities, are poised to set down their delivery bags in a strike for improved pay and working conditions. The strike, slated to coincide with one of the busiest nights of the year for takeaways, is anticipated to involve approximately 3,000 drivers and riders. Scheduled to span from 5pm to 10pm, the action will impact operations on four major food delivery apps, including Deliveroo and Uber Eats.
Organized by Delivery Job UK, a grassroots organization with a substantial Brazilian membership, the strike aims to spotlight the pressing challenges faced by delivery personnel. These workers, often observed navigating bustling streets to ensure prompt food delivery, are advocating against low wages and the precarious nature of their employment. Classified as self-employed contractors, they operate outside the scope of employment laws that guarantee a minimum “national living wage.” Currently set at £10.42 per hour, this rate is due to increase to £11.44 in April.
