Charities consider permanent four-day week switch after trial ‘success’

Charities that took part in the world’s largest four-day week trial have said they are now considering making the change to working patterns permanent.

The initiative, which was piloted in the UK between June and December 2022 by 61 organisations with around 2,900 workers, published its results today. 

Around seven charities piloted the scheme, whereby employees received 100% of their pay for 80% of their usual hours and a commitment to deliver 100% of their normal productivity. 

Three charities said the trial was a positive experience and they were considering permanently switching to a four-day working week but some warned that it was not easy to change working habits.

Pilot has been a ‘positive experience’

Debt Justice, Waterwise, Stemettes and Scotland’s International Development Alliance all told Civil Society News they were considering switching to a permanent four-day working week after taking part in the trial last year, while another had already confirmed it was extending the offer to staff.