Heathrow drivers living on a knife’s edge with short-term contracts and unable to raise genuine concerns
We Know London (WKL) drivers working from London Heathrow Airport have recently raised serious concerns about their working conditions. Enduring a hostile work environment and threatening behaviour from anti-union management.
GMB London, the union for private hire drivers, has been informed by our members working at WKL that driver contracts are now for 3 months only, giving rise to concerns about job security that has created a precarious work environment that discourages drivers from raising concerns about unfair treatment or safety issues.
The company is also advising drivers that if they rent a vehicle from WKL they must accept all journeys offered based upon enforced contractual terms.
Steve Garelick< GMb London Region Organiser said:
“Our members feel they are living on a knife’s edge with these short-term contracts and unable to raise genuine concerns. Afraid that if your face doesn’t fit you are gone, regardless of your driving and customer service record.
“Drivers have said they are pressured to operate vehicles with damaged tyres and other potential safety hazards.
“Another claim is that the offshore control room staffed by personnel in Serbia, utilised by WKL creates communication barriers, hindering clear and necessary information.
“These issues amount to anti-union, bullying tactics. We Know London drivers deserve a fair and safe working environment. We urge the company to address these concerns and prioritise the well-being of its employees and passengers.”
