Drivers belonging to the GMB union recently flocked to an event in Birmingham organized jointly between the union and the TUC-WMCA Skills Partnership.

Recognising a desire for skills among drivers working for Uber and Bolt, the GMB approached the Partnership about organising an event that could be both accessible and relevant for their members. 

Understanding the need for a suitable venue, the Partnership approached the Moseley Muslim Community Association who run the Moseley Community Hub.

In addition to the GMB and the Partnership, local education providers such as Birmingham Adult Education Services, South & City College Brimingham and the National Careers Service spoke to workers about courses funded by the WMCA, as well as offering other CV support and careers advice.

Many members of the GMB had also expressed an interest in understanding more about their pensions and personal finances, so First Actuarial also came along to offer financial guidance and help with understanding money matters to attendees.

The first event of its kind in the country, with dozens of members attending, it was deemed a qualified success. Tracey Wint from the GMB commented:

It’s lovely to see all the different agencies coming together to support Uber drivers.

Her colleague Hajira Piranie added:

We support Uber drivers worried about their accounts and job security. It’s an honour to be able to assist them and resolve their issues.

From a learning perspective, Andrew Webber from the National Careers Service said:

Lovely event, great for Uber drivers to have the opportunity to come along and see providers, get advice and guidance, and understand that they have help and support available to them.

Finally, Gavin Thorne from First Actuarial told us:

It was a pleasure to attend today and help so many people understand a lot more about their pension and finances.