Crimestoppers has launched a new awareness campaign aimed at exposing and preventing the exploitation of delivery drivers working within the gig economy, in partnership with Leicestershire Police.
The gig economy – a labour market characterised by short-term, flexible, or freelance work often coordinated through digital platforms – has become a common source of income for thousands of workers. Roles such as food delivery, rideshare driving, and freelance services offer flexibility, but this same flexibility can make workers vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
Picture credit: CrimeStoppers
The newly launched campaign seeks to highlight a growing concern: individuals registering with delivery platforms only to pass jobs onto others who are unable to secure work themselves. In many cases, the original account holder collects the payment, offering the worker a fraction of the agreed rate—or, in some cases, nothing at all.
“This is a serious form of labour exploitation, and it is completely unacceptable,” said Lydia Patsalides, East Midlands Regional Manager at Crimestoppers. “We want the public to recognise the signs of exploitation and speak out to help protect vulnerable workers in our community. We need the community’s help to speak out against those exploiting others for personal gain.”
The campaign will roll out across Leicestershire over the coming weeks with direct messaging, followed by a four-week social media push encouraging members of the public to report suspected labour exploitation. Reports to Crimestoppers can be made anonymously.
Crimestoppers and Leicestershire Police are urging the public to look out for key signs of labour exploitation, including:
- Workers being underpaid or not paid at all.
- Jobs being passed to others while the original worker receives little or no compensation.
- Excessively long hours with insufficient rest.
- Use of threats, coercion, or manipulation to maintain control over workers.
- Workers incurring debt to obtain or keep work.
“Exploitation in the gig economy is a hidden crime that often goes unnoticed – but its impact on vulnerable workers is devastating,” said Detective Inspector Sam Blackhurst from Leicestershire Police. “We’re working closely with Crimestoppers to shine a light on labour abuse affecting delivery drivers, and we urge the public to speak up if they see something suspicious. Every report helps protect someone from being taken advantage of.”
Many of those affected are individuals who feel they have no other employment options or believe they will be treated fairly, only to find themselves trapped in exploitative arrangements. Such exploitation can lead to debt bondage and is frequently linked to broader criminal activity.
To report concerns confidentially and anonymously, contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
