Introduction
In recent years, there has been much debate around the employment status of Hermes delivery drivers. This is due to the nature of their work and the way in which they are engaged to carry out their duties. In this article, we will explore whether Hermes delivery drivers are self-employed or not.
The Definition of Self-Employment
Self-employment is a term used to describe individuals who work for themselves rather than being employed by an organization. Self-employed individuals are responsible for managing their own finances, paying taxes, and providing their own equipment and materials.
The Case of Hermes Delivery Drivers
Hermes delivery drivers have been described by the company as self-employed contractors. This means that they are not considered employees of the company but rather independent workers who provide services to Hermes on a contract basis.
Arguments for Self-Employment
Hermes argues that their delivery drivers are self-employed because they have control over when and how they carry out their work. Drivers can choose when they want to work and are free to use their own vehicles or rent one from Hermes. They also have the freedom to source their own replacement if they cannot make a delivery themselves.
Arguments Against Self-Employment
The GMB union has challenged Hermes’ classification of its delivery drivers as self-employed contractors. The union has argued that the drivers should be classified as workers rather than self-employed individuals because they do not have enough control over how they carry out their work. They also argue that Hermes sets the rate of pay and controls many aspects of the driver’s job such as uniform requirements and branding.
The Tribunal Ruling
In 2018, a tribunal ruled that Hermes delivery drivers should be classified as workers rather than self-employed contractors. The tribunal found that the drivers had to personally carry out the work assigned to them and did not have enough control over their working arrangements to be considered self-employed. This means that Hermes drivers are entitled to certain employment rights such as minimum wage, holiday pay, and the right to join a trade union.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that there is much debate around the employment status of Hermes delivery drivers. While Hermes has classified their drivers as self-employed contractors, a tribunal ruling has found that they should be classified as workers. This means that they are entitled to certain employment rights and protections under UK law.
- Key Takeaways:
- Self-employment is a term used to describe individuals who work for themselves rather than being employed by an organization.
- Hermes delivery drivers have been described by the company as self-employed contractors.
- The GMB union has challenged Hermes’ classification of its delivery drivers as self-employed contractors.
- A tribunal ruled that Hermes delivery drivers should be classified as workers rather than self-employed contractors.
- This means that they are entitled to certain employment rights and protections under UK law.