New government plans could make it easier for full-time workers to request a four-day workweek as part of efforts to increase flexible working options

Recent speculation suggests that businesses will be expected to accept employee requests for a four-day workweek under the upcoming ‘Make Work Pay’ plans set to be announced next month. Unsurprisingly, the desire for a shorter working week isn’t a new one. In recent years, the idea of a four-day working week has grown in popularity with over seven in 10 employees in the UK already looking to request the schedule next year.

Earlier this year, UK businesses were invited to participate in a new four-day workweek trial set for the autumn, with advocates aiming to gain support from the Labour government. The trial follows the success of a six-month pilot in 2022, where improved employee wellbeing saw 56 of the 61 participating companies switch to a four-day workweek permanently.

What is a four-day workweek?

The four-day workweek is a relatively recent concept that some employers are starting to implement. Although there are various ways to structure it, the main principle is that employees work only four days a week instead of the traditional five. 

For instance, employees might work from Monday to Thursday, Tuesday to Friday, or follow a schedule with one fixed day off each week. Importantly, employees keep their full salary while working about 80% of their previous hours. In return, they agree to maintain their productivity despite the reduced work hours.

The 4 Day-Week Campaign is pushing for the UK to implement a four-day workweek and cut the maximum working hours from 48 to 32 per week. The campaign argues for shorter working hours without reducing pay, claiming it can improve work-life balance, increase productivity, and enhance employee wellbeing.

What are the benefits of a 4-day workweek?

Increased productivity. Despite concerns about lower output, many businesses that have adopted a four-day workweek report increased productivity. In a trial of the four-day workweek, the New Zealand company Perpetual Guardian observed a 20% increase in productivity and saw work-life balance scores rise from 54% to 78%.

Happier employees. According to mental health charity Mind, one in every six adults in England reports experiencing a common mental health condition in any given week, with one in every five admitting to calling in sick to avoid work. A four-day workweek encourages a greater work-life balance with employees having more time to focus on non-work aspects of life, such as rest, leisure, and personal responsibilities, improving overall wellbeing and reducing the need for sick days.

Greater attraction and retention. Studies have shown the promise of a four-day workweek can attract top talent and help companies lower employee turnover. Consulting firm Gartner found that 63% of job candidates noted a four-day workweek with no reduction in pay to be the most appealing benefit when choosing a job.

What are the challenges of a 4-day workweek?

Increased overload. A drawback noted by participants in the initial trial was the increased workload. Some employees experienced higher stress levels as they attempted to finish the same amount of work within fewer hours. Employees might feel pressured to maintain the same level of productivity within a shorter timeframe, which could lead to burnout and a higher focus on output rather than quality.

Reduced collaboration. Some critics have noted having employees work fewer days could reduce chances for team collaboration and face-to-face meetings, potentially impacting the quality of work that depends on teamwork and communication.

It may not work for everyone. While the four-day workweek is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, it may not be suitable for every job or industry. For instance, businesses that rely on customer service might have trouble meeting client needs, whilst fields such as healthcare and retail, which require constant operation, may face challenges. Additionally, personal preferences can vary; some individuals might find the four-day week less appealing and more difficult to manage compared to the traditional five-day schedule.

Could a 4-day workweek be the future?

The new Labour government may be more open to the 4 Day Week Campaign's upcoming pilot compared to the previous Tory administration. Joe Ryle, the director of the 4 Day Week Campaign, expressed hope that with the Labour government in place, there will be a shift towards embracing this change, encouraging more employers to participate in the pilot.

Whilst Prime Minister Keir Starmer did not feature the four-day workweek in his election manifesto this year, several Labour MPs, such as Angela Rayner and Ed Miliband, have expressed their support for the initiative.

The first step is the latest trial. “It’s really important that we conduct these trials and gather data on the impact of flexible working,” says Johnson-Jones. “Without clear data on outcomes, it can be hard for companies to have the confidence to embrace change. These trials provide a great opportunity for everyone to think differently about productivity and working structures, as well as highlighting the huge benefits change can bring.”

If you need help finding your work-life balance, visit the Life Coach Directory to speak to a qualified coach.