Deliveroo Ireland has expressed deep concern over a series of alarming assaults on delivery riders, many of whom are Brazilian nationals, who form the backbone of Ireland’s delivery workforce. In response to these incidents, the company has launched its ‘Rider Respect Charter,’ a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at improving safety and fostering respect for its riders.
“No one should ever face abuse simply carrying out their work or being on the road,” said Deliveroo Ireland Regional Director Helen Maher in a recent press release. “We will continue to call on authorities for better protections and do everything we can to create a safer environment for our riders.”
The announcement follows numerous reports of assaults targeting delivery riders across the country, many of which have disproportionately affected Brazilian workers. In one widely publicized incident, a Brazilian rider was attacked while making a delivery in Dublin, sparking outrage among the community and calls for better protections. Similar incidents have been reported in other cities, highlighting the growing risks faced by these essential workers.
The ‘Rider Respect Charter’: A New Era for Delivery Services
Deliveroo’s new ‘Rider Respect Charter’ aims to establish a culture of mutual respect between riders, restaurants, and grocery partners. The charter outlines core principles designed to create a safer and more professional environment for all parties involved in the delivery process.
Key principles of the charter include:
- Treating everyone with respect and professionalism.
- Maintaining open communication.
- Allowing riders access to facilities where applicable.
- Being patient and receptive to feedback.
- Collaborating to reduce restaurant wait times and improve operational efficiency.
Developed in collaboration with riders and restaurant partners, the initiative seeks to address longstanding concerns raised by delivery workers. “With the Rider Respect Charter, we aim to create a platform that others can look to for leadership on how to foster respect and collaboration,” Ms. Maher added.
Industry and Community Support
The charter has already garnered support from dozens of national and independent restaurants, including prominent names like Elephant & Castle, Wowburger, and Mad Egg. By signing on to the charter, these businesses pledge to uphold its principles, contributing to a safer and more efficient working environment for riders.
Ms. Maher emphasized that the charter is about more than just setting guidelines. “This is about establishing a culture where interactions between riders and restaurants are respectful, efficient, and positive,” she said. “Our ambition is to be not just a delivery service but a supportive community for everyone involved.”
Rising Concerns Among Brazil’s Delivery Workforce
Brazilians account for a significant portion of Ireland’s delivery riders, particularly in urban areas. Their role has become increasingly vital, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surge in demand for food delivery services. However, this visibility has also made them vulnerable to abuse and attacks.
Community leaders and advocacy groups have called for immediate action to address these issues, urging both government authorities and companies like Deliveroo to prioritize rider safety. Deliveroo’s new charter is seen as a step in the right direction, though many believe more needs to be done to protect these workers from harm.
Recent incidents regarding Brazilian Deliveroo drivers
- Heroic Intervention: Caio Benicio, a Brazilian Deliveroo driver, became a national hero after bravely intervening in a knife attack outside a Dublin primary school. He used his helmet to subdue the attacker, preventing potential harm to children. Find out more on this story.
- Victim of Attack: Alexandre Athos Pinheiro Teixeira, another Brazilian delivery driver, was the victim of a terrifying attack in Cork. He was chased and rammed by a car, resulting in severe leg injuries.
- Immigration offenses: A Brazilian Deliveroo driver was fined for dangerous driving and immigration offenses after being caught speeding through a busy Dublin intersection while working illegally.
A Call for Broader Change
While the ‘Rider Respect Charter’ is an important initiative, it also highlights the need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and well-being of delivery riders. Deliveroo’s call for greater protections from authorities underscores the shared responsibility of businesses, government, and the public to create a safer environment for all workers.
For the Brazilian community in Ireland, the charter represents both hope and a challenge—hope that their concerns are being taken seriously, and a challenge to ensure that the principles outlined in the charter translate into real, tangible improvements on the ground. As Deliveroo continues to advocate for better protections, the voices of these riders remain crucial in shaping a safer, more respectful delivery industry.
