The ongoing trial of the 4 day working week has had a difficult start with a number of the 70 businesses involved in the trial experiencing difficulties with managing their rota and staff confusion. Over 3,000 employees are involved in the trial where they have been working a 4 day week with no loss of pay since June. The trial ends in December.
Challenges have included difficulties in managing the hand over of work before non-working days and aligning with other businesses who continue to operate 5 days per week. There have also been challenges with hiring as the trial is only until December and many companies are likely to revert to a 5 day week then.
Despite these challenges many of the businesses have indicated that staff seem happier and that productivity has improved, a key intention behind the trial.
Teething issues are always likely to arise in a trial scheme like this and it is quite possible that in time the businesses who have experienced difficulties will iron these out and retain the 4 day week. We will see how things progress over the coming weeks.
If you are interested in considering a 4 day week in your business please do contact our Employment Team on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our Team will be in touch.