Uber aims to recruit 600 more taxi drivers

UBER is hoping to recruit 600 more taxi drivers in Leicester after a 30 per cent increase in work since the start of the pandemic.

The company has said its drivers all get the National Living Wage and more, as well as holiday pay and, in many cases, can join a pension scheme.

Nationally, Uber’s recruitment drive aims to sign up a further 20,000 drivers in the UK as demand for rides continues to rise.

Ash Kebriti, general manager for the UK and Ireland, Uber, said: “As the UK has opened up, demand for Uber rides has soared, meaning that we need more drivers on the road.

“In Leicester, we’ve seen a 30 per cent increase in demand since before the lockdown as people go back to work, restaurants and bars.

“There’s not been a better time to sign up, especially as we’re the only operator to provide all drivers with holiday pay and, where eligible, enrolment in a pension scheme.”

He said driving with Uber meant access to “industry-leading worker protections”, which include an additional 20 per cent of earnings in holiday pay and a pension.

Uber drivers also receive parental leave payments, sickness and injury cover and occupational accident cover. Every Uber driver in the UK is also entitled to be represented by the GMB union.

Drivers will become members of IPSE – the largest organisation representing the interests of the self-employed.

The company said these rights are only available on Uber and not on any other ride hailing app and are part of the reason why record numbers of drivers are earning on the platform.

However in order to meet growing rider demand as cities open up across the UK, Uber is looking to further increase driver numbers.

Those looking to become an Uber driver can apply at: