London Assembly demands bus driver rights as heat complaints hit record
Drivers report fatigue, lack of toilets and cabs reaching 40°C, while TfL says protections are already in place
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Bus drivers in London have warned that working conditions are becoming unbearable, with extreme heat, lack of toilet access and relentless schedules leaving them exhausted. The London Assembly last month tabled a motion for a 'Bill of Rights' to address these issues, which was backed unanimously by members.
Toni, a London bus driver who spoke at a rally outside Transport for London’s (TfL) headquarters on Thursday, said passengers would be shocked if they knew the reality of the job. She described feeling fatigued to the point of nausea, a claim echoed by other drivers.
TfL to build 53 new toilets for bus drivers
Transport for London is investing £6 million this financial year to improve driver welfare facilities across the capital.
Drivers describe 'inhumane' conditions
Paul, another driver, told the BBC that the job leaves no time for family life or hobbies. He said the 40-minute lunch break is insufficient for a shift that offers no respite. Jason, a third driver, highlighted the lack of toilet facilities on some routes, calling it a dignity issue.
Jason added that summer driving conditions are particularly gruelling. He said cabs can reach 40°C, making it impossible to work safely. Last year saw a record number of complaints about overheated buses, though the exact figure has not been disclosed.
TfL plans publicly-owned bus company
Transport for London is developing proposals to run its own bus services, potentially ending private operator contracts.
We're living in the 21st Century - how can it be acceptable that bus drivers are expected to drive on a route and at the end of that, they haven't even got the basic facilities of a toilet?
Keith Prince, Reform UK London Assembly Member
TfL says protections exist, but drivers want action
The motion tabled by Reform UK Assembly Member Keith Prince calls for access to toilets on all routes, guaranteed rest breaks, no forced overtime, the right to report safety concerns without fear of punishment and working air-cooling systems in buses.
TfL responded by saying it takes the safety and welfare of bus drivers seriously. In a statement, it said drivers play an essential role in keeping London moving and that it regularly engages with Unite the Union on these issues. It added that it is working on measures to improve working conditions, health and wellbeing.
TfL also said it is committed to ensuring fair work schedules, safe vehicles and access to necessary facilities. It reassured drivers that any reports of welfare concerns are fully investigated and that operators should not penalise staff for raising issues.
What happens next
The mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, has pledged support for drivers during heatwaves but has not announced specific measures. The London Assembly’s motion is not binding, so any changes will depend on TfL’s willingness to act. Unite the Union continues to negotiate with TfL on behalf of drivers.
Drivers and campaigners say they will keep pressing for improvements. The next formal step is unclear, but the Assembly’s unanimous backing for the motion puts pressure on TfL to respond.
Questions this report answers
+What is the London Assembly’s 'Bill of Rights' for bus drivers?
The London Assembly unanimously backed a motion last month calling for a 'Bill of Rights' for bus drivers. It demands access to toilets on all routes, rest breaks, no forced overtime, the right to report safety concerns without punishment and working air-cooling systems in buses.
+How hot do bus cabs get in summer?
Bus drivers report that cabs can reach 40°C in summer, making driving conditions unbearable. Last year saw a record number of complaints about overheated buses, though the exact figure has not been disclosed by TfL.
+What has TfL said about bus driver working conditions?
TfL says it takes driver welfare seriously and is working with Unite the Union on improvements. It claims protections already exist in law and its contracts, and that it investigates all welfare reports. No new measures have been announced.
+What support has the mayor of London pledged for bus drivers?
Sir Sadiq Khan has pledged support for bus drivers during heatwaves but has not outlined specific measures. The London Assembly’s motion is not binding, so any changes depend on TfL’s response.
WE FILE
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