The latest UK-wide unemployment figures published on 18 January 2012 are even worse than previous bleak economic forecasts predicted.

If they become unemployed, low-paid workers are most likely to be on the dole for more than six months, according to a new TUC analysis.

Employees spend nearly 200 hours a year travelling to and from work - adding up to around five weeks extra work - according to a TUC analysis.

Public sector unions planing a day of action over government cuts are aiming to build alliances with private sector workers and the wider anti-cuts movement.