New data reveals that over 4 million of the UK’s night workers are set to spend an extra hour on shift when the clocks go back this weekend, while most of the country gains an extra hour in bed. This comes as nearly 4 in 10 night shift workers also say they feel their work is less recognised compared to daytime staff, and 67% feel the public doesn’t understand what it’s like to work nights in the run up to the festive season*.
The UK is renowned as home to some of the world’s greatest night-time scenes – from iconic venues that give London its character, to Manchester’s legendary live music scene – generating £160bn annually** for the UK economy. But the staff who work behind the scenes to make the entire industry possible are the unsung heroes.
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said: “The contribution of the millions of people who work through the night, and are the backbone of our night-time economy, too often goes unseen and unrecognised, particularly when the clocks go back and they face an extra hour on shift. The night-time economy is in a vulnerable and fragile phase and the hardworking people who make it possible deserve recognition, appreciation and meaningful support for the vital role they play in keeping our cities alive. Uber’s Night Shift Tab campaign shines a much-needed spotlight on the dedication of these workers while offering practical support through a safe journey home or a well-earned meal. It’s a timely reminder of the importance of the people who are behind every great night out.”
From midnight on Sunday 25 October, Uber is launching the “Night Shift Tab” to help offset the longest shift of the year. Digital billboards in London and Manchester’s major nightlife hubs will light up with Uber discount codes, funding up to £10 off rides home or post-shift meals for people clocking-off.
The codes will also be shared with night workers through partnerships with UK Hospitality and the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA). Whether it’s a safe ride home in the early hours, or a hot meal after a long shift, it’s a token of appreciation for the people who keep two of the UK’s busiest nightlife hubs moving.
Andrew Brem, General Manager at Uber UK, said: “We have world-class nightlife here in the UK, but it only exists because of the people keeping it alive behind the scenes. While the clocks going back gives many of us a longer night out, or a nice lie-in, it also means an extra hour of graft for people working at night. Picking up their tab in London and Manchester this weekend is our way of showing up for the people keeping the cities running, making sure an easy ride home or a hot meal will be on the way at the end of their longest shift.”
Drivers and Couriers on Uber will also benefit from a dedicated support package as the clocks go back. For drivers in London and Manchester, Uber will match the tips they receive from midnight until to 8am on Sunday 25th October – recognising it’s a busy night for everyone that’s working. An incentive will also go live for couriers in both cities on Saturday night. Bike helmets and reflective bands will be made available to couriers in London, alongside a free hot drink from participating stores. Terms and conditions apply.
How to access the Night Shift Tab
The Night Shift Tab builds on Uber’s commitment to supporting the people who work when others don’t – including nine years of Christmas support for NHS and healthcare staff, and the drivers and couriers who earn on the platform through the night – getting workers home safely every night of the year.
Night shift workers in London and Manchester can access a discounted ride or delivery from midnight on Sunday 25th October by entering NIGHTSHIFT for up to £10 off an Uber ride, or NIGHTSHIFTEATS for up to £10 off an Uber Eats order. Terms & Conditions apply.
