The concept of a four-day workweek is gaining traction worldwide, with businesses in the Southwest UK exploring this innovative approach to enhance work-life balance and maintain productivity. This blog delves into recent insights from employees and employers, showcasing how various organisations are adapting to this model.
Employee Benefits of a Four-Day Workweek
employees are often the greatest advocates for the four-day workweek, citing significant improvements in work-life balance. The UK's largest four-day week trial in 2022 involved 61 companies and 2,900 workers over six months, allowing them to implement four days in whatever way they preferred while maintaining 100% pay.
· 39% of employees reported being less stressed.
· 71% had reduced levels of burnout.
· 54% found it easier to balance work with family life.
· 65% found it easier to combine work with a social life.
The full report can be found here.
Employer Strategies and Insights
Those implementing a four-day week report a surprising uptick in productivity, attributing this to higher employee morale and reduced absenteeism. For instance, a 2019 experiment at Microsoft Japan resulted in a 40% increase in productivity and a 23% reduction in costs, including electricity and printing.
In 2022, Exeter-based Tyler Grange made the four-day week permanent after a trial period, seeing a 22% increase in productivity, an 88% increase in job applications, and a 66% reduction in absenteeism. The UK trial also saw a 57% decrease in employees leaving their companies.
Variations Across Industries
The adoption of a four-day workweek varies significantly across industries. Service-based sectors like IT and marketing find it easier to implement flexible schedules, while manufacturing, care, and retail may require a more traditional presence. The main reasons for not implementing a four-day week include:
· Already experiencing not enough time in the week.
· Inadequate technology and tools.
· Inadequate hybrid working model.
· Employers not prioritising results.
Four-Day Working Week for the Southwest
Our research has found that while some businesses and government bodies in Cornwall and Devon are implementing a four-day week, it is not yet a widespread practice. This can be attributed to the nature of industries in the Southwest, such as care, hospitality, and farming, where a four-day week may not be feasible.
Local Economic Impact
Evidence suggests that a four-day working week positively impacts local economies. A shorter working week can lead to increased consumer spending, as employees have more leisure time to engage in local activities and businesses. For example, local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues benefit from the increased free time and spending power of workers,
In addition a shorter working week could reduce the UK’s carbon footprint by 21%, comparable to removing every private car off the road. Additionally, companies report financial savings from lower overhead costs and improved employee health and well-being.(5)
What do our clients think
Cornwall-based marketing business, Carbon Pixel, is considering a four-day workweek. Business Manager Antonia comments:
"We work with several agencies that have implemented four-day weeks, and it can be frustrating when urgent needs arise and no one is available. We are considering this model but aim to ensure coverage across all business hours over the five-day week, ensuring clients always receive timely responses. Clear communication about our hours would be crucial. The benefits are evident, and if it improves our team's wellbeing, it's something we are definitely interested in."
Conclusion
The four-day workweek is a transformative idea with the potential to revolutionise work cultures. While not a one-size-fits-all solution, it offers a valuable option for businesses aiming to boost productivity and enhance employee satisfaction. As this trend grows, more data will provide deeper insights into its viability across different sectors and regions. As Southwest UK businesses continue to explore this model, it will be important to monitor long-term impacts on productivity and employee well-being. With balanced implementation and ongoing adjustments, the four-day workweek could become a sustainable part of modern working life.
1) https://autonomy.work/portfolio/uk4dwpilotresults/
4) https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/why-4-day-week-works-companies-success/155566/