LESS TIME IN WORK = MORE VALUE FOR MONEY?
Is a 4 day working week closer following South Cambridgeshire Council’s successful trial?
Imagine having a three-day weekend every week. Sounds pretty amazing, right? That’s the simplistic outcome from the four-day working week, a concept that’s been trialled increasingly in the UK. The latest of these trials, at South Cambridgeshire District Council, saw increases in employee productivity and decision making, and decreases in absenteeism and staff turnover.
The South Cambridgeshire Trial
The local authority brought in the trial for staff to do “100 per cent of the work in 80 per cent of the time” in January 2023, before it was later expanded to cover waste services.
The scheme was brought in by the Lib Dem-run council but was heavily criticised by the then Conservative government with calls for an immediate stop to the trial.
But after deciding to continue, the council has now published an independent report which it said shows “the brave and pioneering trial has clearly been a success”.
What is a 4 day week?
Fundamentally, a 4 day working week is a reduction in hours for the same pay as 5 days. This is different to compressed hours (e.g. working traditional hours across 4 days). Campaigners argue a shorter working week reduces employee stress levels, and increases productivity, with studies suggesting 78% of employees with a 4 day week being happier and less stressed.
The obvious questions arise: why would companies allow this; how will it impact on work productivity; what about the cost? Let’s have a look at the pros and cons.
Improved Work-Life Balance
One of the most notable benefits is the improvement in work-life balance. Employees can enjoy having an extra day off. What’s not to like? An extra day to relax, spend time with family, or pursue personal interests. The Cambridge trial (and others) show some workers do end up working some hours outside their 4 days, but not in sufficient numbers to compare with a 5 day week, and less than “normal” hours undertaken on top of 5 day contractual hours.
Boost in Productivity
Contrary to concerns that a shorter workweek might reduce output, the Cambridge trial found that productivity actually increased. Workers reported being more focused and efficient during their four working days, managing to maintain or even exceed previous levels of productivity. Many key performance indicators from the trial show significant improvement on matters such as dealing with application, answering calls, and number of days to process benefit claims.
Reduced Burnout and Absenteeism
A common result from the increasing number of trials is workers having reduced sickness. This is partly due to reduced stress, but also the advantages of more time to rest, take exercises, and getting more sleep.
Environmental Benefits
An added bonus is the potential positive environmental impact. Even in the post-Covid era, fewer commuting days leads to reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to increasing sustainability goals. A recent trial in Spain found a surprising reduction in workers commuting by car, from 56.5% to 52.5%.
Attraction and Retention of Talent
Offering a four-day week could make companies more attractive to job seekers, particularly younger workers who value work-life balance. This could help businesses stand out in a competitive job market. The Cambridge trial found staff turnover had reduced by 39 per cent, while there was also a 53 per cent rise in the average number of applications for roles.
Positions traditionally hard to recruit for – particularly in waste services – were filled, including 10 previously held by agency staff that gave the council an annual saving of £483,000 in agency costs.
“As more organisations see the benefits demonstrated in South Cambridgeshire, it’s likely that the interest in a four-day workweek will grow. However, each industry and company will need to carefully evaluate how to implement the impact of such a change in addressing specific operational needs.”
The Challenges
While the South Cambridgeshire trial demonstrated many benefits, it also highlighted some challenges that need to be addressed for broader implementation.
Operational Hurdles
Some sectors, especially those requiring continuous coverage like healthcare and emergency services, will find it difficult to adapt to a four-day schedule. These industries would need to find innovative ways to maintain service levels. Solutions could include staggered work schedules or hiring additional staff to cover the extra day (but there are of course additional costs).
Workload Pressure
There’s a potential risk that employees might end up with the same amount of work but less time to complete it. This could lead to longer hours on working days, which might negate the intended benefits of reduced stress and improved well-being. Careful planning and workload management are crucial to ensure that the extra day off does not result in increased pressure on the remaining days.
Adjusting Schedules
Coordinating a four-day workweek with clients, customers, and international partners can be complex. It requires significant planning and flexibility to ensure smooth operations. Businesses might need to adjust their operating hours or find ways to ensure continuous service despite the reduced workweek.
Will the Cambridge Trial Mean More Employers Look to a Four-Day Week?
Given the positive outcomes of the South Cambridgeshire trial, the big question is whether more employers will consider adopting a four-day workweek. The trial's success suggests that it could be a viable option for improving employee satisfaction and productivity while also contributing to environmental goals.
Broader Adoption
As more organisations see the benefits demonstrated in South Cambridgeshire, it’s likely that the interest in a four-day workweek will grow. However, each industry and company will need to carefully evaluate how to implement the impact of such a change in addressing specific operational needs. Tailored approaches and gradual transitions might be necessary to accommodate various business models.
While there are challenges, the significant improvements in work-life balance, productivity, and environmental impact may make it an idea worth exploring. As more companies and organisations test the waters, we’ll get a clearer picture of how this could shape the future of work in the UK.
If you’re considering undertaking a trial, there are contractual elements to consider for your employees which will need to be done properly, with consultations undertaken. Unfortunately, it isn’t quite as simple as a 3 day weekend for all!
Have you tried it?
If your organisation has been toying with the idea of a trial, or you have implemented the change, what were the advantages and challenges you faced?