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The photovoice study

Gig Health Project

Digital labour platforms and its effects on health and well-being: a mixed-method project of gig workers in Sweden

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The Project
The photovoice study

Photovoice – Taxi drivers

Photovoice – Taxi drivers

Do you want to know what a day looks like for a taxi driver in Stockholm?

One taxi driver shares his view on electric cars: “It is good for the environment, but that is not the whole picture, because it is stressful, and the expensive electricity means economic pressure for us both at work and private.”

This photo summarizes two important discussions: a message is reminding the driver about the deadline for his insurance, adding stress about rules and regulations that need to be managed. Second message on the screen is about a financial incentive which adds motivation.

The photo represents expenses and a tough economic situation. One driver comments: “In hindsight we know it could get worse…”

This photo represents how income provides relief from economic stress.

Some customers travel with company, which was positive for this driver: “Animals have a positive effect on health, and it is a given conversation subject. It puts me in a good mood”.

At other times, customer service is more challenging. This photographer comments: ”It is a disadvantage when costumers are drunk, it becomes a problem not only for them but for us both”

This photo was chosen to symbolize the constant risk of being involved in a traffic accident, and how that impacts stress levels. One driver commented feeling “lucky that is wasn’t me” when he sees warning signs like this one.

One topic of discussion was related to disadvantageous conditions for platform drivers compared to “traditional” taxi drivers. One participant reflects: “When you have to work over 8 hours per day, more than 5 days a week it makes you very tired, and you do not earn enough money like others.”

In relation to safety and health one participants reflected: “When you spend so much time on the roads like we do, then you see both good and bad things” This photo evoked some positive feelings despite the driver getting blinded by the sun, and the photographer commented: “I feel good even if I can’t see anything”.

One driver commented: “Sometimes there are gaps in the schedule, especially in the middle of the summer, so then there is free time”

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