A recent study by the Trades Union Congress highlights the critical issue of unpaid overtime, with teachers working an extra 26 hours a week, leading to significant financial losses and calls for government action.
A recent survey conducted by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has illuminated the widespread issue of unpaid overtime work in the UK, notably among teachers. The study revealed that 40% of educators are working an extra 26 hours each week without compensation, leading to an annual financial loss of approximately £15,000 per person. This revelation has sparked significant concern among teaching unions, such as the NASUWT, which has accused the government of exploiting teachers through “daylight robbery” due to its failure to invest in the education sector adequately.
The NASUWT General Secretary, Patrick Roach, addressed the unsustainable working conditions faced by teachers, noting that many are working upwards of 50 to 70 hours a week. Roach criticized the government for allowing the situation to persist, arguing that quality education cannot be sustained on the backs of overworked, underpaid educators. Moreover, the survey highlighted a broader issue affecting 3.8 million workers across various sectors, who collectively contribute billions of pounds of unpaid labour annually.
Public sector workers, especially teachers, were identified as more prone to working unpaid overtime compared to their counterparts in the private sector. The TUC’s findings stress the urgent need for better remuneration and support for public sector employees. In light of these findings, the TUC has initiated a campaign to advocate for workers’ rights and urged the government to address unpaid overtime issues that are affecting workers’ well-being and financial stability.
To highlight the issue, the TUC designated “Work Your Proper Hours Day,” encouraging workers to observe their entitled breaks and finish work on time. The action aims to raise awareness of the significant contributions of unpaid overtime to the economy and the adverse effects it has on workers’ health, safety, and work-life balance. General Secretary Paul Nowak criticized the Conservative government for its failure to tighten regulations concerning employers’ overtime records, further exacerbating the problem.
