The past decade has seen seismic changes in the way we work. New technology has freed employees from their traditional bases, while apps have meant some gig economy workers are now better able to juggle work and family life.

But for those on low pay providing essential local services, the app age has cost them their work freedom and, in some cases, their safety.

Homecare, housing association or nursing care workers, cleaning and hospitality staff, waste and recycling workers, and gardeners are facing the perfect storm of an increase in contracting out of services and a rise of the – often precarious – gig economy.