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Campaigners push for four-day work week in UK councils

Following a historic vote in South Cambridgeshire, campaigners target additional councils for a four-day work week.

July 25, 2025 at 05:29 PM
blur Campaigners targeting dozens of UK councils in push for four-day week

Campaigners aim for a wider adoption of the four-day work week in UK local authorities.

UK councils consider four-day work week after South Cambridgeshire vote

Campaigners are targeting dozens of UK councils calling for a four-day work week following South Cambridgeshire's historic vote to make this work pattern permanent. This change comes soon after over 200 businesses adopted similar arrangements, proving successful in trials. South Cambridgeshire’s district council found significant benefits, including improved service delivery and reduced staff turnover. The campaigners are optimistic, having identified at least 24 other councils with potential plans to adopt this model, reflecting a broader shift in workplace practices.

Key Takeaways

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South Cambridgeshire became the first UK council to adopt a permanent four-day week.
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Over 200 businesses have successfully trialed similar work weeks, maintaining employee salaries.
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Independent analysis shows improved services and job satisfaction at South Cambridgeshire council.
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Campaigners target 24 more councils to join the initiative, citing strong interest.
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Increased job applications and reduced turnover highlight the benefits of a shorter work week.
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Growing momentum may signal a significant shift in public sector employment.
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The traditional five-day work week faces scrutiny as outdated and ineffective.

"As hundreds of British companies in the private sector have already shown, a four-day week with no loss of pay can be a win-win for both businesses and workers."

Joe Ryle stresses the successful implementation of the four-day week by many companies, supporting the campaign's goals.

"The extremely positive results from the first council trial should be the catalyst for more councils across the country to modernise and transform their ways of working by adopting a four-day week."

Ryle advocates for the broader adoption of the four-day week based on the results seen in South Cambridgeshire.

The push for a four-day work week is indicative of a larger conversation about work-life balance in today's economy. The success seen in South Cambridgeshire serves as a strong case study, suggesting that reduced hours can lead to higher productivity and employee satisfaction. Joe Ryle's comments emphasize a growing sentiment that traditional work structures are outdated. With an increasing number of councils considering this shift, we may soon witness a transformation in public sector employment practices that aligns more closely with modern needs.

Highlights

  • A four-day week is a win-win for both businesses and workers.
  • Hundreds of companies have shown that reduced hours can work.
  • The five-day work week no longer suits the realities of modern life.
  • South Cambridgeshire sets a new standard for councils across the UK.

Potential backlash against widespread adoption of four-day work week

As local governments consider adopting a four-day work week, there are concerns about budget impacts and public reaction from various stakeholders, including those resistant to change. If not managed properly, this could lead to criticism and complications in implementation.

The movement towards a four-day week signals a possible redefinition of work in the public sector.

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