Thousands of workers in the ‘gig economy’ are set to benefit from a major Supreme Court ruling on workers’ rights to holiday pay and other benefits.
The Supreme Court today ruled in favour of Gary Smith, employed by Pimlico Plumbers as an 'independent contractor' who needed to work reduced hours following a heart attack. An Employment Tribunal and the courts all agreed that he should be protected by equality law.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has funded Mr Smith’s case with TMP Solicitors since July 2015 and throughout the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court process.
Pimlico Plumbers employ over one hundred workers as independent contractors, while requiring them to wear their uniform and drive branded vehicles, giving the impression they are permanent employees of the company.
Equality and Human Rights Commission Chief Executive, Rebecca Hilsenrath, said: