Experts say reducing hours does not reduce productivity
A four-day working week would be a major step forward for disabled people’s inclusion in the workplace, according to a report. Research by Disability Rights UK, Patchwork Hub and the 4 Day Week Foundation suggested that a four-day, 32-hour working week with no loss of pay – rather than compressed hours – can improve the health, wellbeing and long-term employment sustainability for disabled workers.
The organisations said evidence from disabled and neurodivergent workers showed how greater control over working time and patterns can help people better manage impairments, energy-limiting conditions, medical appointments and caring responsibilities, while maintaining or improving productivity.
Making reduced working hours universal across an organisation helps normalise flexibility for everyone, removing stigma and reducing the need for disabled employees to request individual exceptions or disclose health conditions, it was suggested. Dan White, of Disability Rights UK, said: “A four-day week, a genuine reduction in hours with no loss of pay, would make a transformative difference to disabled people, giving us the time and flexibility to attend appointments, manage fluctuating conditions, protect mental health and progress in our chosen employment.
“Employers would also see the benefits with gains in productivity and performance.”
James Reeves, campaign manager at the 4 Day Week Foundation, said: “This research shows that a genuine four-day week can be a powerful tool for inclusion in the workplace.”
