Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Isabelle Gerretsen

How a four-day week could boost the economy after coronavirus

Photograph: Getty/iStock
T

he coronavirus pandemic has disrupted work patterns around the world and challenged long-held assumptions about how and where we should work. Employees have proven that they are able to work productively from home, while balancing childcare and other caring responsibilities. Companies have realised that they can save on electricity and rental costs, as well as keep their staff motivated and happy by offering flexible working arrangements.

The past seven months have blurred the lines between our personal and professional lives and reignited the debate about whether a four-day week should be introduced. In a recent nationwide survey, 86 per cent of adults who said they were enjoying spending more quality time with people they live with, indicated that they want this to continue after the pandemic. 

Proponents of the four-day week say it could be a win-win policy for the economy, gender equality and mental wellbeing following the pandemic and help businesses and workers recover from the turmoil this year.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.