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Zero Hour workers twice as likely to work “health risk” night shifts – TUC analysis.

• Zero-hours workers more likely to do night shifts and are paid on average £4 an hour less  
• TUC calls for zero-hour contracts to be banned across the economy 

Zero-hours workers are more than twice as likely to work night shifts than other workers, according to new analysis published by the TUC yesterday (Monday). 

The analysis shows that on a range of key measures, zero-hours workers are having a tougher time those in secure employment. 

Nearly a quarter (23%) regularly work through the night, compared to 1 in 10 of the rest of the workforce. 

Night-working has been shown to increase long-term health impacts, such as heart disease, shortened life expectancy and risk of cancer.  

Lower pay: 

People on zero-hour contracts are paid around a third (£4.10) less an hour than other workers.  

This is despite the fact that 1 in 7 (14%) are responsible for supervising other workers. 

Struggling to find work: 

1 in 7 zero-hour workers (16%) do not have work each week. 

Zero-hours workers work on average 25 hours a week, compared to the average worker, who works 36 hours a week. 

The TUC is calling for a ban on zero-hour contracts alongside further action from government to tackle exploitative and insecure work.  

TUC polling shows that two-thirds of zero-hours workers prefer to be on permanent, secure contracts. 

The TUC is marking this year’s HeartUnions week from 11-17th of February, a celebration of the work done by trade unions to support working people across the country.  

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady yesterday said: 

“The vast majority of people on zero-hour contracts want out. The only flexibility offered to them is what’s good for employers.  

“Zero-hours workers regularly work through the night for low pay, putting their health at risk. And many face the constant uncertainty of not knowing when their next shift will come.  

“We need action from government the now to stamp out these exploitative contracts once and for all.” 

Click here for the full press release