Workers’ rights could be strengthened with a 4-day working week proposal as part of government plans to increase flexible working. This could come in the form of ‘compressed hours’ whereby employees work the same number of weekly hours over 4 days rather than 5.
Labour’s ‘Make Work Pay’ plan is designed to increase productivity and create the right conditions for businesses to support sustained economic growth. Labour’s education minister said that ‘compressing work hours and offering flexible working is actually good for productivity, enabling people to attain a better work-life balance, spend more time with their family and friends, and encourage more people into the workplace’.
Employees already have the right to request flexible working, and employers must deal with requests in a ‘reasonable manner’ but can reject them if they have a good business reason for doing so. However, to be sustainable, flexible working must work for both sides.
A 6-month trial took place in the UK from June to December 2022 which involved 61 companies and around 2,900 workers. The report found that overall, employees reported less burnout and fatigue, and an increase in physical health, with most participating companies planning to make a permanent switch to a 4-day work week.
However, earlier this year, Morrisons scrapped its 4-day working week arrangement at its Bradford head office as employees had to work some Saturdays which resulted in complaints and dissatisfaction. Likewise in July, Asda also ditched a 4-day week trial after complaints that longer shifts were too demanding.
A new new pilot was launched on 4 November involving 17 businesses employing around 1,000 workers who will trial either a four-day week or a nine-day fortnight (whereby employees get an extra day off every two weeks), with no loss of pay. The pilot will present its results to the Labour government next summer.
The government has insisted there are no plans to force organisations to accept 4-day week demands, and there would be consultation with businesses and trade unions prior to any potential parliamentary processes.
If you’re an employer considering a move to a 4-day working week or you require assistance with flexible working requests in general, get in touch on 01942 727200 or email enquiries@employeemanagement.co.uk without obligation.