Commenting on today’s publication of the Taylor Review into modern employment practices, Dr. Wanda Wyporska, Executive Director of The Equality Trust, said:

“Some ‘gig economy’ jobs are likely to help those on low incomes boost their pay, but others are little more than a way for employers to dodge their responsibilities. The creation of jobs is vital to reduce inequality, but the creation of low-skill, low productivity jobs is not the best long term plan for a more equal, successful society. 

“The problem with reclassifying workers and providing minimal protections is that, in many cases, workers are already successfully showing they are effectively employees. What we need therefore is stronger unions, and better enforcement of the law. 

“Giving workers real power is not only the key to better run and more successful businesses, it is also the route to a more equal society and an economy that truly works for us all.” 

The Equality Trust is a registered charity that works to improve the quality of life in the UK by reducing economic inequality. UK income inequality is among the highest in the developed world and evidence shows that this results in poorer mental and physical health, higher violent crime, poorer educational outcomes and lower levels of trust. Inequality affects us all. For further comments or to arrange an interview, contact info@equalitytrust.org.uk