Healthy, happy workers? The consequences of commuting between Northern Ireland and Great Britain

The recent economic downturn has seen many construction companies in Northern Ireland look to secure work in Great Britain to maintain their operations. A direct consequence of this has been an increase in the number of workers, both professionals and trades, who are now commuting to Great Britain for work; that is, spending at least five consecutive days away from home as part of their regular work schedules. Here, ten exploratory, in-depth semi-structured interviews were held with Northern Ireland construction workers currently travelling to Great Britain for work. Data was transcribed and analysed using cognitive mapping software. Findings revealed that workers struggle with tiredness and fatigue, suffer from depression and loneliness, missing family and friends, which can lead to increased drug and alcohol consumption, and use of prostitutes. The use of hotels also limits workers ability to cook for themselves and so eat healthily, as well as reducing social interaction, encouraging workers into hotel bars and pubs as shared social spaces, again influencing levels of alcohol and type of food consumption. Recommendations are made for the care of those on such schedules, to mitigate such negative impacts on worker health and wellbeing.