YOUNG workers took to the streets of Glasgow last night in protest against “Victorian” working practices, zero-hours contracts and poverty wages.

Activists from the Scottish TUC’s Better than Zero campaign targeted 12 of the city’s worst employers with 12 key demands, including an end to zero-hours contracts, a living wage and union recognition.

Demonstrations were held outside high street stores, restaurants and chain pubs, with the activists talking to workers and the public about poor employment practice and its effects, particularly over the busy Christmas period.

Among the businesses targeted were the G1-owned Corinthian, Pizza Hut, Betfred, Sports Direct and Deliveroo.

These employers have been known to pay less than the minimum wage, use zero-hours contracts and expect new staff members to work unpaid “trial” shifts which can amount to a full weeks’ work.

Activist Bryan Simpson said: “We know we have to focus on the very worst in hospitality, as some don’t even pay the minimum wage.”

He added: “We’ve heard from several people from several branches of Pizza Hut who are told their shifts will finish at 11pm but aren’t finishing until past midnight and aren’t getting paid the extra hours.”

Better than Zero is also demanding that staff who work beyond midnight have their transport home paid for, as many workers, particularly women, are forced to either walk home alone or spend hard-earned money on taxis.

Mr Simpson said the protest was not about undermining workers, but “making them aware of what they’re entitled to” and putting “external pressure on employers” to change their treatment of workers.

STUC deputy general secretary Dave Moxham said the businesses targeted had been the subject of complaints over pay discrimination, zero-hours contracts and their tipping and rostering policies, along with the denial of pay for time worked, unfair use of trial shifts and safety problems linked to late working.

He said: “This is the beginning a 12-day period of action in which we will highlight the complaints received and publicise the action these employers need to take.”

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