In a groundbreaking move, a year after the largest-ever trial of a four-day working week in the UK, 89% of the participating companies have chosen to continue with the reduced schedule. The study, conducted by researchers at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, Boston College, and British think tank Autonomy, revealed that over half of these companies, constituting 51% of all participants, have decided to make the four-day week a permanent fixture.
Year-Long Impact: Sustaining the Four-Day Week Revolution
The trial, conducted from June to December 2022, involved employees at 61 companies across various sectors working an average of 34 hours across four days. The long-term benefits of this transformative approach to work were evident in the follow-up study conducted one year later. Key highlights from the autoonomy.work report include:
- Continuation Rate: Out of 61 participating organisations, a remarkable 89% are still following the four-day week policy after one year, with 31 (51%) making it permanent.
- Positive Impact: All managers and CEOs surveyed reported a ‘positive’ or ‘very positive’ impact of the four-day week. A notable 82% witnessed improved staff well-being, 50% observed reduced staff turnover, and 32% experienced enhanced recruitment.
- Sustained Benefits: A separate survey with staff from 47 pilot organisations showed maintained improvements in physical and mental health, work-life balance, and overall satisfaction. This was accompanied by reduced burnout and increased job satisfaction.
- Practical Insights: Interviews provided valuable insights into maintaining four-day week policies, including revisions to meeting norms, communication, and work prioritisation.
- Strategic Approaches: Organisations implemented various strategies to uphold four-day week policies, adapting meeting norms and work prioritisation.
Before the Trial: A Shift Towards a Progressive Work Culture
Before the trial, in November 2022, 100 companies in the UK transitioned to a permanent four-day work week, ensuring employees maintained their full pay. Key players like Atom Bank and Awin embraced this change, marking a significant departure from the traditional five-day pattern.
A Lasting Transformation: Beyond Trial to Sustainability
As the world’s largest-ever trial of a four-day working week continues to yield positive results, it underscores the potential for a transformative change in work culture. With ongoing support and innovative strategies, the four-day week is not just a trial; it’s a sustainable solution for enhancing employee well-being and productivity in the modern workplace.
