12.07.24

University team advises Council on Four Day Working Week benefits

Categories: Research, School of Health and Society

Daiga Kamerāde, Professor in Work and Wellbeing at the University of Salford, has led an independent report into South Cambridgeshire District Council’s performance during its four-day week trial.

Of 24 key performance indicators monitored by the Council, analysis by the Universities of Salford and Cambridge found 22 improved or remained the same.

Dr Daiga Kamerāde

Professor Daiga Kamerāde said: "The trial suggests that a four-day work week maintains the quality of public services as measured by key performance indicators, while attracting new staff and improving workers' wellbeing.

"The pioneering trial can inspire evidence-based innovations in local councils and other organisations."

Under a four-day week, officers were expected to carry out 100 per cent of their work, in around 80% of their contracted hours, for 100 per cent of their pay. The Council’s opening hours were  maintained so it stayed open for business just as it was before the trial – with longer opening hours on Wednesdays.

Professor Kamerade's research has made headlines at home and overseas, and has sparked a national conversation about new ways of working.

Read the full four-day week report.

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