Nearly half of Brits who work a night shift (44%) claim they much prefer it to working during daylight hours – as it is quieter (39%) and you can earn more money (35%), a study has found.
Not having to commute to work during rush hours (33%), and seeing sights they would not usually see during the day (19%) are also among the top draws to night-time working.
And having fewer meetings to attend also appeals, while one in three (32%) said it gives them the chance to enjoy more “me-time”.
The poll of 2,000 employed adults found that 57% have never worked a night shift – but three in ten of those would be “likely” to take the opportunity to do so, if it arose.
The study was commissioned by Samsung, which has partnered with photographer, Ben Weller, to capture portraits of nightshift workers using the Galaxy S23 Ultra, to “shine a light” on what they do.
The shots feature in a virtual exhibition called “The Light Shift Gallery”, which has been narrated by Fearne Cotton, and include a farmer, a florist, a star gazer, a confectioner, and a milk delivery worker.
Ben Weller said: “I’m passionate about my photography having a strong sense of narrative – so when I learnt about all the interesting things our “Light Shift” grafters were doing, I couldn’t wait to help share their stories.
“I normally shoot my projects on film, so this was my first time using a smartphone. I’m excited for the nation to get a real sense of the overnight magic I’ve experienced.”
But the study, carried out via OnePoll, also found that a third (32%) of those who currently work during the day would not be inclined to switch to afterhours work, because they claim they “can’t function at night”.
And a small number also perceive nightshift work to be “boring” and “lacking opportunity to be creative” – but “The Light Shift Gallery” aims to change these perceptions.
Samsung Ambassador, Fearne Cotton, said: “Through my long career in broadcast, I understand the creativity and joy that can take place during the darker hours or morning twilight.
“From my early days radio presenting, and now doing the Happy Place podcast and writing books, I get a real buzz seeing all the varied and creative work that happens before the sun is up.
“I hope this beautiful series of smartphone portraits inspire others who don't work conventional hours. They're shining the light on all those who work hard when many others are sleeping.”
TOP 10 BENEFITS OF WORKING NIGHT/SUNRISE SHIFTS:
- It's quiet
- You can earn more money
- You don't have to travel to/from work during rush hour
- You get the daytime to yourself
- It's better suited to people's lifestyles
- Fewer distractions
- You get to see things you wouldn't in the daytime
- You save money
- Fewer meetings to attend
- It allows you to nail your life admin during the day
