MORE workers in Dorset than ever before are on zero-hours contracts – more than 16,000 according to government figures.

The issue of ‘insecure work’ is being highlighted by trade union campaigners from the TUC who says it is impacting on workers’ lives and make it hard for them to stay afloat financially.

According to analysis of recent government figures by the TUC South West, there are 16,040 workers employed on zero-hours contracts in Dorset.

In total, 107,000 workers in the south west report they are in this bracket – an increase of 42 per cent (32,000 workers) from the previous year – and the largest volume since records began.

The warning from the TUC comes after campaigners attended a Dorset Council meeting to highlight the issue of chronic low wages in Dorset.

Some of the poorest and most deprived areas of the country are in South Dorset – which also has one of the lowest average household income figures.

Zero-hours contracts, also known as casual contracts, are usually for ‘piece work’ or ‘on call’ work. Workers are on call when required but employers do not have to give them work.

Following a recent survey of zero-hours workers conducted by the TUC it was found:

n The main reason workers are on insecure work contracts is because it’s the only type of work available to them – with most wishing alternative, permanent contracts instead;

n More than half (54%) say they struggle to pay bills because they can’t get enough work

n Most have had shifts cancelled last minute thus making it difficult to plan child-care and personal appointments

Nigel Costley, regional secretary of the TUC: “We know the majority of workers on zero-hours contracts don’t want to be on them. They’re completely one-sided and cause so much financial strain.

“Most of these contracts are also used in essential, yet low paid industries like hospitality, construction, and social care.

“Nobody can earn a living or raise a family off this type of insecurity.”

Mr Costley called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to ban zero-hours contracts "and ensure ordinary working people get the permanent, guaranteed hours contracts they deserve."