National Gallery faces employment tribunal over dismissal of 27 artists and educators

Twenty-seven artists and art educators are taking the National Gallery to an employment tribunal, alleging unlawful dismissal and discrimination based on service length, sex, and age. They claim they were misclassified as freelancers despite decades of service, ranging from 10 to over 40 years, and seek recognition as employees or workers with rights to holiday pay and consultation. The group delivered daily films, talks, courses, and workshops at the London gallery, enhancing public engagement. In response, the National Gallery stated the claims stem from its shift from ad hoc work to more secure employment with pension benefits, aiming to expand audience reach through digital technology. However, the educators argue the gallery replaced them with fewer in-house roles on reduced salaries. James Heard, a claimant with 45 years of service, emphasized the need to protect teaching expertise in UK museums. A crowdfunding campaign, 'Help National Gallery Educators seek justice at Employment Tribunal,' has been launched to cover legal costs. This case highlights broader gig economy disputes, similar to those involving Uber, Deliveroo, Pimlico Plumbers, and Hermes.