We Know Group drivers to be offered ‘worker status’ option following GMB union action

Mark Bursa

Drivers working for London-based We Know Group will be offered the option of ‘worker’ status following a successful legal challenge from the GMB Union.

Heathrow-based We Know London operates a multi-faceted online booking service aimed at tourists.

In a statement, GMB said a member working as a private hire driver for We Know London, part of the We Know Group, had contacted the GMB Taxi & Private Hire Drivers Branch with concerns about pay and employment status.

GMB’s communications led to the company instructing legal representation, and as a result, drivers will now be offered the option of “worker” rather than self-employed status.

Simon Rush, President of GMB Taxi & Private Hire Drivers Branch, welcomed the decision, saying: “I am delighted with this outcome that started with a series of emails to the company to question the differentials with drivers’ pay and status.”

“As a result, the company employed their solicitors and has now agreed the favourable solution to offer all self-employed drivers a contract of employment, with a rate of pay above the National Minimum Wage. Owner-drivers who prefer the flexibility of working under the driver-owner model may continue if this is their preference. The existing ‘paid driver’ model will be discontinued.

“We Know London has also confirmed freedom of association and the right to join a Union. GMB is now on a path to seek formal recognition with the company.”

Steve Garelick, GMB London Region

Organiser, said: “Following GMB Union’s success in landmark legal cases including Uber, very few operators are implementing the correct employment status and continue to exploit workers who are ‘bogus’ self-employed. Therefore, we recognise this was a bold step by the employer and hope that our membership continues to benefit from the value, protection and assistance GMB offers when things at work need to be challenged and resolved.”