Addison Lee drivers could soon claim thousands in workers' rights compensation says law firm

Thousands of Addison Lee drivers could be entitled to an average of £10,000 in compensation, according to law firm Leigh Day.

Leigh Day is representing Addison Lee drivers, who are fighting to be classed as ‘workers’, on a no win no fee basis.

The firm argues that the London-based company should provide its drivers with paid holiday, ensure they are paid at least the minimum wage, are protected from discrimination and have the right to raise complaints without fear of being punished.

The law firm says the private hire operator does not currently provide drivers with these rights, normally given to workers, instead claiming drivers are self-employed contractors.

However, the Employment Tribunal in 2017 found that drivers are ‘workers’. The ruling was upheld by the Employment Appeal Tribunals in 2018. Addison Lee has appealed this decision again.

Similar legal action is being brought by Uber drivers, also represented by Leigh Day. The Court of Appeal has stayed Addison Lee’s appeal pending the decision in the Supreme Court regarding Uber drivers, which is due to be heard on 21-22 July.

There are more than 5,000 Addison Lee drivers across London, Bristol, Birmingham, Cambridge, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Swansea, Stoke on Trent, Portsmouth, Nottingham and Newcastle.

The private hire company will only be legally required to compensate those who have brought a claim.

Liana Wood, a solicitor representing the drivers at Leigh Day, said: “All these drivers are asking for is to be treated fairly yet Addison Lee continues to deny them basic workers’ rights.

“During the pandemic we have seen how difficult it can be for private hire drivers, many of whom have put themselves at risk by continuing to drive during lockdown for those who need to make essential journeys.

“It’s clear from the way Addison Lee operates that its drivers should be given workers’ rights. They are highly trained, regulated drivers who are often having to work more than 60 hours a week just to make ends meet. This cannot be allowed to continue.”

More information about the claim can be found at www.leighday.co.uk/forms/AddisonLee