The largest trial of the four day work week by the 4 Day Week Campaign has released findings that have divided businesses, employees and the media. 61 companies from different fields have tested a four day work week, with 18 companies choosing to make the change permanent.
FOUR DAY WORK WEEK
The Good
Surveys suggest that when the work week was reduced to four days the mood around working changed. Out of 2,900 employees surveyed across the UK:
- 40% were sleeping better
- 54% had an easier work/ life balance
- 39% felt less stressed
The Bad
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) published its findings late last year. They found that the four day work week didn’t suit everyone.
For most, the four day work week isn’t a realistic option as people look for more work and wages during the cost of living crisis.
Within the study by the 4 Day Week Campaign, some employees felt pressured to increase productivity and work smarter to fit all their 5 day week tasks into 4 days, leaving the workplace less sociable.
The Trends
It’s clear that the four day work week trials are far from complete, but we are starting to see a trend.
Workplaces are divided into two camps.
One camp believes that the four day work week will lead to increased stress, either financially with reduced wages or mentally with increased workload.
The second camp believes the reduction in days will lead to a reduction in stress and increase in productivity.
Should you change?
Is it a change your business will introduce in the near future? Most employers are saying no for now, but it’s an interesting conversation, and we’re glad it’s being considered from all sides.
If you would like some advice on this, or any other HR related matters, we work with a number of trusted partners who we would be happy to introduce.
CANDIDATE SPOTLIGHT
Accounts Assistant – Wirral – £23-24k
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- Clearbooks & Xero Experience
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JFR NEWS
Claire’s been nominated …
We want to congratulate and show our support for our very own Claire Statham.
Claire has been nominated for the Cheshire Woman of the Year Award!
We are so proud to have a member of the team recognised for their efforts.
JF Recruitment Turns 10!
Next month Joanne Finnerty Recruitment turns 10 years old.
It’s been a pleasure to discover great talent for brilliant businesses.
How do you think we should celebrate?
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JUST FOR LOL’s
Jobs we’re glad aren’t a thing any more…
Food taster – The sole purpose of the food taster was to protect the monarch from poisoned food by tasting it themselves. Whilst it may seem great eating more food than the royals, I’m not sure I would like to die trying.
Fun Fact – The pre-packaged sandwiches you find in your meal deals today aren’t that old of an invention. They were first on sale in 1980 by M&S employees who didn’t want leftover sliced sandwiches from the staff cafe to go to waste. Now I’m hungry.