Uber Drivers Stage 24-Hour Global Strike in Major UK Cities

Uber and other private hire drivers in cities across the UK, including Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent, and Nottingham, staged a 24-hour strike as part of a global protest demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and stronger protections for gig economy workers. Drivers, supported by unions such as IWGB and ADCU, argue that falling fares, rising commission rates—sometimes reaching up to 40-50 percent—and longer working hours have left many struggling to support their families and maintain their mental health. Protesters cited hidden stress and financial strain, with some reporting a drastic drop in weekly earnings compared to previous years, and expressed frustration at a lack of transparency over fare splits between drivers and customers. Uber acknowledged that commission rates can reach 40 percent on certain journeys but stated that their average 'take rate' is typically between 20-30 percent and emphasized that drivers receive worker benefits such as the national living wage and holiday pay. Despite these company assurances, many drivers feel trapped by deteriorating rates and say the current system fails to offer adequate support. The strikes were coordinated to coincide with similar actions by drivers worldwide, signaling a unified demand for reforms across the gig economy.