THE TUC is urging people to spare a thought for nightshift workers as research published at the weekend shows a growing increase in people working nights, with women fuelling that growth.

TUC analysis found that the number of people working night shifts has increased by 275,000 between 2011 and 2016 to 3,135,000, now accounting for one in eight employees.

Traditionally night shifts were worked by men in manufacturing, but changes to the economy mean that women account for 69 per cent of the growth in night-working over the past five years. 

Now 14 per cent of male employees work night shifts, compared to 9 per cent of female employees.

The research also found a clear gender split in night shift professions. Female night workers commonly nursing and working in care.

Men meanwhile are most likely to work in protective service occupations such as military, security, policing and road transport.

However, the number of men doing night shifts in these professions fell by 26 per cent and 12 per cent respectively since 2011.

Workers as young as 16 can work night shifts, and there are nearly 150,000 people working nights in their sixties.

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Whether it’s nurses looking after patients, or police officers keeping our streets safe, we all depend on Britain’s army of night workers.

“Night work is hard and can disrupt family life. So we must show our appreciation for the sacrifices night workers make by ensuring they have good rights and protections at work.

She warned: “Employers must play fair and play safe, or public safety will be put at risk and the families of night workers will suffer.”

Research has shown that regular night shifts can in the long term lead to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and depression.