Support Migrant Gig Workers Under Attack in Northern Ireland

In recent days, shocking scenes of violence have erupted in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, where migrant workers of the gig economy have been directly targeted in a terrifying escalation of racist aggression.

Ballymena is the site of a key Worker Info Exchange project and we have collaborated with gig workers there for a some years now. We are in Ballymena this week to speak to workers affected and their stories are disturbing. At least seven workers and their young families have now fled the country. Those remaining are unable to work because most restaurants have not opened for delivery all week.

Masked mobs have stormed homes, forcing terrified families to hide in attics. Some have had to evacuate through back doors and sleep elsewhere, fearing for their lives. One worker and his young family we gave packed an emergency go-bag in case they need to escape at short notice.

As reported by the BBC and the Belfast Telegraph , these are not isolated incidents—they are part of a deeply worrying trend of highly organised, hate-driven attacks.

None of the big platforms - Uber, Deliveroo & Just Eat - have acknowledged the risk of violence to their workforce. They remain on line and have offered their workers no support, no security advice and no pay for time off.

These events have created an environment where it is no longer safe for many delivery couriers to continue working and that may remain the case for some time. As workers explained to us, it is not as simple as handing over food parcels. Platforms require that workers collect validation codes and inspect IDs for alcohol deliveries and is this activity that increases the risk significantly. As a result, most workers have lost access to income with no support from the platform employers that manage their work.

Why We're Raising Funds

At Worker Info Exchange, we are urgently seeking your support to provide emergency financial relief to the delivery couriers affected by the recent riots. These workers—most of them migrants—have not only been forced into hiding but are also losing their income daily.

With no access to paid leave or protection from platform companies like Deliveroo, Just Eat or Uber Eats, many of these workers are now left without any means to support themselves or their families.

This crowdfunder will:

Many of these workers are classed as self-employed by app-based delivery platforms, meaning they do not have access to paid leave, sick pay, or any income protection during times of crisis.

This Didn’t Start Here — Read the McExploitation Report

The current crisis is the latest chapter in a long history of racial and economic injustice facing migrant couriers. In October 2024, we published the McExploitation Report , documenting how migrant delivery workers across the UK and Ireland are subject to algorithmic control, precarious employment, low pay, and systemic racism.

The report highlights how these workers are disproportionately exposed to unsafe conditions and denied basic employment rights. What we are witnessing now in Ballymena is the culmination of years of neglect and dehumanisation.

How You Can Help

This crowdfunder is intended to provide timely and practical assistance. We are seeking contributions from individuals, community organisations, and allies who want to support the immediate needs of these workers while broader systemic issues are addressed.

All funds raised will go directly toward financial support for those affected by the events in Ballymena, surrounding areas and Northern Ireland.

About Worker Info Exchange

Worker Info Exchange is a non-profit organisation advocating for data rights and fair treatment for platform workers. We work to improve transparency, accountability, and working conditions across the gig economy.

McExploitation Report

https://www.workerinfoexchange.org/

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