Older workers powering an increase in night working, TUC analysis reveals//AIWA! NO!///

Summary

• Nearly 1 million over 50s now working through the night
• Night working at its highest level since current records began
• TUC warns that night working is linked to

Nearly one in three people working night shifts are aged over 50, according to research by the Trades Union Congress (TUC). With the retirement age edging ever higher, the job market shifting and fewer young people taking overnight jobs, unsociable hours for older workers are becoming more of a norm. The TUC claims, however, that those working through the night are putting their family lives and health at risk. As part of efforts to reform workers’ rights, the government is proposing better compensation for those who keep the “country ticking over while we are asleep”.

The growing numbers of older night workers should worry us all. We know the health risks that exist for all night workers – higher risks of depression, cardiovascular problems and diabetes. These are further amplified for older workers. And the government isn’t doing enough to protect night workers across the board. They need better notice of their shifts and proper compensation if work is cancelled – 

@tazvinzwacrimson