London sparks fly to union
The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which is building up a reputation for organising “gig” economy workers such as Deliveroo couriers, has launched a branch for self-employed electricians. It will initially be open to electricians in Greater London, with a view to expanding nationwide in future.
The union estimates that there are 85,000 self-employed electricians in the UK, many of whom are not unionised. “Consequently the sector is rife with abuse,” it says.
The IWGB says the branch will campaign to improve pay and working conditions and tackle issues such as umbrella companies, overwork, pay and de-skilling, including unqualified workers dong electrical work after only a 16-week training course.
Electrician Sam McDouall, a founding member of the branch, said: “We need to fight back against the abuse and de-skilling which is becoming increasingly common in our sector.