Mobility app Freenow has introduced new benefits that will give all of its 10,000 UK taxi drivers access to accident and sickness insurance, and compassionate and parental leave.
Through a partnership with workplace rewards platform Onsi, formerly Collective Benefits, Freenow employees will be able to access accident and sickness insurance, including accidental death and permanent disablement.
They will also be eligible for compassionate and parental leave that includes providing a lump sum to cover time off if they welcome a new family member or lose a loved one, and discounts on food and groceries, fuel, technology and utilities at well-known retailers.
According to the employer, this additional support for its drivers and their families is particularly important considering the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
Mariusz Zabrocki, UK general manager at Freenow, said: “The wellbeing of our taxi drivers, both physical and financial, is of the utmost importance to us at Freenow, and we believe in continuously striving to provide them with the best support possible. We are delighted to give black cab drivers access to accident and sickness insurance and compassionate and parental leave on top of other existing benefits, all aimed at supporting them during these trying financial times.
“We are proud to be partnering with Onsi to provide a wealth of unique benefits to our 10,000 taxi drivers across the UK as we continue to put our driver community at the heart of everything we do.”
Freenow’s existing benefits include a subsidy worth up to £4,000 that will help taxi drivers transition to an electric vehicle.
The employer also announced that it will provide UK private hire vehicle drivers with a choice regarding their employment status, allowing them to choose between remaining independent contractors and self-employed, or gaining worker status, which provides them with a national living wage guarantee, holiday pay and access to a pension scheme.