Academics from four UK universities led a study of waste management employees. Unfortunately, they discovered that public support for these workers has dropped sharply since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. A new study, led by the University of Sussex’s Professor Natalia Slutskaya, and published in the journal Sociology, reveals that. It aims to illuminate the experience of refuse collectors, road sweepers, litter pickers and graffiti removers as they go about their often unseen, but essential duties.
The researchers conducted interviews with 42 waste management workers in London and the south-east of England during two distinct periods: between the first and second lockdowns in 2020 and again in 2021, after restrictions were lifted. The results expose how workers quickly went from heroes to scapegoats for their essential role during the pandemic. Ever since, their working conditions have deteriorated, leading to a sense of devaluation and stigmatization.
Deteriorating Employment Conditions
Workers interviewed described a significant deterioration in their working conditions as the pandemic wore on. A lot of workers raised alarm about more grueling work hours, with longer routes and six-day work weeks.
One litter picker articulated the harsh reality faced by many in the profession:
“Now employment is based on zero hours, part-time work, extremely low pay. People who say ‘you’re lucky to have a job’—that is wrong.”
This feeling reflects the reality for many workers who are compensated with wages that leave them struggling to make ends meet. Another litter picker reflected on the financial strain they face:
“Nothing has changed since the pandemic. When I pay for my rent, it’s basically near enough all my wages, it’s straightaway gone.”
Despite being classified as essential workers during the pandemic, these employees now grapple with worsening conditions that have resulted in increased workloads without corresponding compensation.
The Shift in Public Perception
At the beginning of the pandemic, waste management workers were viewed more positively than ever, touted by the public as pandemic heroes. However, post-lockdown sentiments have shifted dramatically. Workers described a strong sense of being under-appreciated and disrespected, with some even experiencing verbal harassment from members of the public.
This welcome change in public perception points to a deeply concerning trend. Workers become seen as less intelligent or even indolent, just based on their field of employment. One litter picker noted:
“In the pandemic they were clapping us, now they treat you like dirt again. You get abuse, you get threatened; we had silly little notes in the bins threatening us, calling us lazy bastards, we’ve heard it all.”
Combatting the stigma surrounding these critical occupations is no small task. Consequently, a lot of workers feel taken for granted, despite performing invaluable services that keep our communities clean, healthy, and safe.
“The concept of it all is that, because you work for the Council, you don’t work hard—they see council workers as shirkers.”
While this is already significant, the research uncovered more profound social implications beyond the public perception of work deemed essential. Tim Newton, Professor of Psychology at the University of Leicester shares this valuable perspective. Importantly, he argues that societal perceptions of status often drive the prestige premium paid for different occupations.
The Social Implications
This perception creates a culture of shame among employees who were once proud to be part of what they produce. One litter picker recalled their mixed emotions during times of public appreciation:
Professor Natalia Slutskaya and her industrial relations colleagues shine a light on the contribution of waste workers during the COVID19 pandemic. They point out that managing public perception and attracting recognition is still one of their biggest hurdles.
“I think that because of the way that society is nowadays, if you’ve got a job with money, you’re elite and people look up to that. They look at people like road cleaners and they think you’ve got nothing—we’re not important to them.”
This perception can lead to feelings of embarrassment among workers who once felt proud of their contribution. One litter picker recalled their mixed emotions during times of public appreciation:
“I felt embarrassed when they were clapping. You’re waving back like you’re a superhero, you’re a celebrity. I’m just a normal dustman, but it was good, the country showing their appreciation.”
Professor Natalia Slutskaya and her colleagues emphasize that while waste management workers played a vital role during the pandemic, navigating the complexities of public perception and recognition remains an ongoing challenge.