The Four-Day Workweek Debate: A Council's Dilemma Under Government Scrutiny

Local Government Secretary Steve Reed has recently sent a warning to all council leaders in England, strongly advising against the adoption of a four-day working week. His letter, reported by the Telegraph, highlights concerns that council staff engaging in part-time hours while receiving full-time salaries may reflect a lack of accountability and effectiveness within local authorities. Reed emphasizes that such practices, without solid justification, could indicate potential failures within the council’s operations.

Reed’s missive makes it clear that the government expects high standards from local councils, with a Labour source stating that voters rightly demand exemplary service during the traditional five-day work week. The apprehension surrounding the four-day week is amplified by Reed’s previous criticisms directed at the South Cambridgeshire District Council, which became the first UK council to permanently adopt this model after a trial phase in 2023. He expressed disappointment at a noted decline in performance in their housing services, urging the council to find ways to address these issues effectively.

The government’s stance reflects a broader skepticism about the four-day workweek, particularly stemming from concerns that it may impair productivity and hinder economic growth. Nevertheless, this perspective is contested, especially following positive outcomes from a trial in the Scottish public sector earlier this year. This pilot study indicated increased productivity and enhanced staff well-being, with 98% of participants reporting improvements in morale and motivation.

This ongoing debate continues to highlight the tensions between modern work culture and traditional expectations of service in public sectors, raising critical questions about the future of work in local governments.