The vast majority of companies taking part in the world’s largest trial of a four-day week have opted to continue with the new working pattern, in a result hailed as evidence that it could work across the UK economy.
Of the 61 companies that entered the six-month trial, 56 have extended the four-day week, including 18 who have made it permanent (93%).
Surveys taken before and after the trial found that 39% of those employees taking part considered that they were less stressed, 40% were sleeping better and 54% found it easier to balance work and home responsibilities.
The companies taking part were satisfied with productivity and business performance during the trial. Sick days fell by about two-thirds and 57% fewer staff left the companies taking part compared with the same period a year earlier.
Recently Sainsbury’s, the UK’s second largest supermarket, said it would trial offering some employees the chance to work four days a week. This trial does not involve a cut in total hours but allows workers to squeeze the same number of hours into four days.
The findings of the trial are due to be presented to MPs as part of efforts to promote a 32-hour week for workers in Britain.
If you are thinking about trialling a four day week or implementing contract changes, please contact me.