Life in the diaspora: How many hours can you work? – Understanding the UK labour rules
By Mary Opii
For many Nigerians arriving in the UK, one of the greatest motivations is work. The promise of steady income and fair wages is an attractive draw, especially compared to the instability and underpayment experienced back home. Yet, the UK’s labour market comes with its own set of rules, and one of the most surprising for newcomers is the strict regulation of working hours. Unlike Nigeria, where working 60 to 70 hours a week might be praised as a sign of diligence and hard work, in the UK there are limits, protections, and structures that safeguard employees’ health and well-being.
The most widely known of these is the 48-hour rule. By law, full-time workers in the UK are not expected to work more than 48 hours per week on average, calculated over a 17-week period. This is part of the Working Time Directive, a piece of European legislation that the UK still observes. Employers are required to keep records of working hours to ensure compliance. However, workers can sign an “opt-out” agreement if they want to exceed this limit. For many Nigerian immigrants eager to maximise earnings, especially those sending remittances back home, opting out becomes almost second nature. But it comes with risks: long hours may boost income, but they also increase the risk of burnout, stress, and health issues.
Equally important are the rest breaks. Workers are entitled to at least 20 minutes of uninterrupted rest if their shift is longer than six hours, at least 11 consecutive hours of rest between shifts, and one full day off per week. For Nigerians accustomed to working without formal breaks, this adjustment can feel strange at first. But over time, many come to appreciate it, especially when they see how it contributes to better productivity and work-life balance.
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Night workers, too, are protected under the UK law. Those working nights are not supposed to work more than eight hours in a 24-hour period on average. In addition, they are entitled to free health assessments because of the strain night shifts can put on the body. These provisions reflect the UK’s prioritisation of workers health, something often overlooked in Nigeria’s more informal labour system.
From a Nigerian perspective, these rules can feel both protective and restrictive. Many new arrivals are eager to put in as many hours as possible, sometimes juggling two or even three jobs. The goal is to save quickly, pay bills, and send money back home. Yet, over time, most discover that rest is as vital as wages. The system, though seemingly rigid, is designed to ensure that workers are not exploited and that they live healthy, sustainable lives.
I remember my own surprise when my employer insisted I take my full break time, even if I felt like I did not need it. It was a sharp contrast to Nigeria, where skipping lunch or staying late might is seen as dedication. Here, rest is not just encouraged, it is the law.
For Nigerians in the diaspora, understanding these rules is crucial. They are not barriers but safeguards, ensuring that we work smart, not just hard, as we build our lives abroad.
