4-day work week

Could the UK embrace a 4-day work week?

In June 2022, 70 UK companies and over 3,000 workers began working 4 days a week, with no reduction in pay. Firms are trialling this for 6 months, basing it on the 100:80:100 model – 100% pay, for 80% of the time, with 100% productivity.

Why a 4-day work week?

Our working patterns and the focus we all give to our work-life balance have shifted considerably since Covid-19. Sticking to a rigid, outdated, time-based system doesn’t make sense in most modern businesses, especially given that people have technology and tools that enable them to multitask more effectively than ever before.

Businesses are now adopting a more flexible approach to work with productivity rather than “presenteeism”. If the employees in the companies involved in this trial become healthier, happier and more productive, then perhaps the UK could be on the cusp of a significant change in the way most people work.

Could this be our future?

The concept may not suit everyone and every type of business, but it could help firms to attract new recruits in the current hyper-competitive market for talent. There are benefits for businesses too – after all, more productive team members are more profitable. In addition, costs could be cut if the office only has to open 4 days per week.