Uber has announced the nationwide expansion of its childcare support program, offering over 100,000 drivers across the UK access to free, flexible childcare. The initiative, in partnership with on-demand childcare platform Bubble, aims to help working parents, particularly mothers, balance their work schedules and childcare responsibilities.
The expansion follows a successful pilot program in 2023, where 1,000 drivers received a total of 10,000 hours of fully funded childcare. Encouraged by the positive response—96% of participants reported it helped them work more hours—Uber will now provide 20 hours of free childcare per year to all UK drivers.
Addressing Barriers for Working Parents
Uber’s move is designed to support parents who often struggle to work peak hours, such as evenings and weekends, due to childcare responsibilities. By partnering with Bubble, the UK’s leading on-demand childcare service, Uber aims to give drivers access to vetted, local babysitters and nannies who can accommodate unpredictable schedules.
For many drivers, this initiative offers significant relief. “Receiving childcare support during the pilot really showed me how much easier things can be when the burden is shared,” said Tania Naseer, an Uber driver and single mother of three. “Having access to reliable care means I can drive without distraction, earn more, and still be present for my children. It’s not just about work—it’s about wellbeing, too.”
Enhancing Flexibility and Workforce Inclusion
Uber drivers currently earn an average of £30 an hour when taking trips on the app. However, childcare responsibilities often limit their ability to maximize earnings. The company hopes the initiative will not only support existing drivers but also attract more parents—especially women—to the platform, addressing gender imbalance in the workforce.
“This is a world first for Uber and a major step forward for flexible work,” said Andrew Brem, Uber UK General Manager. “By extending free childcare to every driver in the UK, we hope to remove one of the biggest obstacles facing working parents and show that flexibility can work hand in hand with meaningful support.”
Tackling the Childcare Crisis
The expansion of Uber’s childcare program comes amid growing concerns over the cost and accessibility of childcare in the UK. Studies show that more than two-thirds of working parents have considered quitting their jobs due to childcare expenses, and one in ten mothers have left the workforce entirely.
Ari Last, CEO and co-founder of Bubble, highlighted the significance of this partnership. “Flexible work requires flexible childcare. With this initiative, Uber is setting a new standard—one that understands the realities of modern parenting and working life. Trusted, quality childcare shouldn’t be a luxury; it’s a necessity.”
Improving Conditions for Flexible Workers
In addition to the childcare program, Uber has implemented other worker protections in the UK, including holiday pay, pensions, and free sickness and injury cover. These measures are part of the company’s broader efforts to improve conditions for flexible workers while maintaining the appeal of on-demand employment.
By expanding free childcare access, Uber is not only supporting its workforce but also setting a precedent for other gig economy platforms to follow.
