WORKERS in Wiltshire are likely to work an average of seven hours a week in unpaid overtime, according to figures from the Trades Union Congress.

According to the TUC South West, 63,500 employees (about 20 per cent) in the county put in almost a full extra day of work each week in 2018 - the equivalent of £5,587 in unpaid leave for the average worker.

The figures have been released today in line with Work Your Proper Hours Day, marking the fact that the average person doing unpaid overtime has effectively worked for free so far this year.

Overall, companies in the South West claimed more than £2.5billion of free labour last year because of workers doing unpaid overtime.

Those in the teaching and education profession are the most likely to work overtime, with just over half working an average of 12 unpaid hours every week.

As part of Work Your Proper Hours Day, the TUC South West is encouraging workers to leave on time and take a proper lunch break.

TUC regional secretary for the South West Nigel Costley said: “It’s not okay for bosses to steal their workers’ time.

“Lots of us are willing to put in a few extra hours when it’s needed, but too many employers are taking advantage of working people’s generosity and love for their profession.

“Overworking staff hurts productivity, leaves workers stressed and exhausted, and eats into precious time that should be spent with family and friends.”

“Bosses who do steal people’s time should face consequences. So we’re calling for new rights to ensure that employers who break the rules on working time can be brought to employment tribunals.”