A recent trial of a four-day workweek in the Scottish public sector has delivered overwhelmingly positive results, potentially paving the way for wider adoption. Two public sector organizations—the Accountable Independent Body (AIB) and South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE)—switched to a 32-hour workweek without any reduction in salary or productivity during the year-long trial.
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What Happened: The Four-Day Workweek Trial
The pilot involved 259 employees across AIB and SOSE, who worked 32 hours per week instead of the traditional 40. Despite the reduction in hours, employees maintained the same pay, and organizations reported no loss in productivity. The trial revealed significant improvements in work-life balance, employee morale, and job satisfaction, highlighting the benefits of a shorter working week.
Who Is Behind the Trial
The trial was coordinated by the Autonomous Institute, commissioned by the Scottish government. Almost all employees participated, with 98% reporting improved morale and motivation. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to explore innovative work models for public sector employees in Scotland.
Background and Timeline
The year-long trial aimed to increase employee welfare and work-life balance while maintaining productivity. Key findings include:
- The percentage of SOSE employees who felt “very satisfied” with their work-life balance rose from 4% to 84% in just nine months.
- Employees with caregiving responsibilities found the shorter workweek particularly beneficial, with some describing it as “life-changing.”
- Stress levels among employees decreased significantly, while job satisfaction improved across both organizations.
The positive results have sparked discussions about expanding the model to other public sector organizations in Scotland.
Public and Social Media Reaction
The trial received strong support on social media and from the general public. Many praised its positive impact on mental health, productivity, and work-life balance. Public sector workers expressed optimism about the potential for a broader rollout, citing improved morale and overall employee welfare during the trial.
Official Statement and Next Steps
Wils, CEO of the Autonomous Institute, said:
“The results of the Scottish Government pilot have been overwhelmingly positive, showing benefits for both workers and employers.” He emphasized that adopting a shorter workweek can enhance productivity, particularly in the context of advancing technologies like AI.
The Scottish government has expressed interest in widespread implementation of the four-day workweek in the public sector, with further trials planned to determine scalability for other organizations.
Conclusion
The Scottish public sector’s four-day workweek trial demonstrates that reducing working hours can improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and work-life balance without affecting organizational outcomes. These results may serve as a model for other sectors and countries exploring innovative work practices.