‘Gig working more attractive if accompanied by greater employment rights’

While most workers favour full-time employment, significant proportions would consider gig work and zero hours contracts if they have more employment rights, according to a PwC survey.

The survey of more than 2,000 UK adults found  77% of the people surveyed prefer full-time employment but that 45% would consider gig work (defined as short-term, casual work, typically organised or facilitated via mobile phone apps) or already work in this way. This number would rise if employment rights increased significantly, with two in five people saying it would make them more likely to take up gig work, according to the survey.

Gig work is most popular with millennials – some 58% of 18-34 year olds would consider taking gig work compared with 30% of those over 55. Likewise, while zero hours contracts would be considered by 35% of respondents overall, 45% of millennials say they would take a zero hours contract, falling to  just 24% of over 55s.

The main reasons for considering this type of work is the flexibility to fit around lifestyles, although 34% of respondents say they would consider zero hours contracts more as a last resort.

The biggest concern is not being able to generate sufficient income, followed by fears over job security.  The lack of benefits, including holiday and sick pay, are other key concern.

Julian Sansum, employment partner at PwC, said: “A flexible labour force is one of the UK’s strengths, and key to driving competitiveness and productivity. But it needs to be a win-win for both employers and workers. Our research shows that while many workers are open to the idea of gig working, for many their concerns over job security and being able to generate sufficient income still outweigh the benefits this type of work can offer.

“A balance needs to be struck between promoting flexibility and ensuring employees have sufficient employment rights and protections. In order for gig working to prosper, we need a tax system that is simple, workable, efficient and does not lead to distortions. Offering education and training alongside increased workers rights will be vital to ensure that people are able to move easily between different roles and that no one gets left behind as the job market evolves.”

Over a third (36%) of those surveyed say they would be more likely to become self employed if tax were the only factor. Over a third (34%) of self-employed respondents currently find administering their taxes a significant burden. Some 73% workers say if they were on a zero hours contract they would request fixed hours from their employer if given the option.

Julian Sansum,  employment partner at PwC, said: “There has been talk of aligning the tax treatment of employed and self employed.  Any review needs to bear in mind that the administrative burden for self employed people will likely always be greater. Reducing this compliance burden should be a key focus.”

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