Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats drivers strike in Watford

An estimated 3000 workers walked out across the country between 5pm and 10pm yesterday (Friday, February 2), with demonstrations taking place in London and Brighton.

During the five-hour protest, Watford delivery drivers parked up their bikes.

Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat use self-employed workers who are paid for each delivery made, with fees varying depending on the order and the distance travelled.

An anonymous contributor told The Watford Observer: "They (fees) have not increased due to the cost of living and rising price of insurance.

Delivery bikes parked up in Watford. (Image: Supplied)

“Four years ago, companies would pay £4.50 for the minimum ride but now it can be as low as £3.

"Sometimes you can get offered two orders for £4."

Deliveroo and Just Eat have defended the rates currently paid to their drivers.

A spokesperson for Just Eat said: “We take any concerns raised by couriers on our network seriously.

"We provide a highly competitive base rate to self-employed couriers and also offer regular incentives to help them maximise their earnings.

"We continue to review our pay structure regularly and welcome any feedback from couriers."

A spokesperson for Deliveroo added: "We offer riders the self employed, flexible work they tell us they value, alongside protections.  

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"Riders always earn at least the national minimum wage, plus vehicle costs, for the time they are working with us, though the vast majority earn far more than this. 

"Riders are also automatically insured for free, covering them if they are in an accident or injured while working and receive income protection if they are unwell and cannot work."

Deliveroo said that total pay for riders has increased from this time last year.