In April 2024, we joined the hundreds of organisations piloting a reduced working week. In our one-year pilot, full-time hours dropped from 35 to 32 (and part-time hours proportionately) with no loss of pay.
The results of the pilot have been promising – with 69% of those in our staff survey reporting less work-related stress. Overall, our research shows that the 32-hour week works well for mental health.
What we found
Our survey found that 68% of respondents have experienced improved mental wellbeing, reporting positive feelings and mood, time for activities such as study or caring for others, better ability to cope with challenges, and a sense of control, presence, and focus. Staff also felt their productivity impact had not been negatively affected by the reduction in hours – and self-rated productivity rose. This was confirmed by the charity’s directors who saw no detriment to achieving the organisation’s goals.
The 32-hour week may also be working to reduce inequalities in the workplace. Employees with lived experience of poor mental health showed the largest gains. Employees with a disability, long-term condition, neurodivergence, parenting responsibilities, or caring responsibilities also described specific ways the pilot has improved their quality of life, and made work more sustainable for them.
“I think from my perspective, trying to work full time whilst having a physical disability is always something that has been a challenge. I [now] just feel a lot more confident in my ability to be able to work full time.”
Recruitment and retention
Another benefit has been seen in recruitment with almost double the volume of applications to vacancies at the organisation compared to the previous year.
Applications to vacancies increased by 93.5%, and 28% of applicants mentioned the 32-hour working week as a key attraction. We also saw an impact on staff retention, with intention to leave reduced from 33% to 15%.
What’s next for the Mental Health Foundation?
There is strong evidence that the 32-hour week has improved employee wellbeing and reduced inequalities, and no indications that it has harmed performance. It’s also shown to have a positive impact on organisational success, such as strategic focus and personnel stability. By undertaking the pilot at a time of broader change, MHF demonstrates its role as a pioneer implementing mental health solutions in the real world.
Following the pilot and evaluation, the Board agreed to make the 32-hour week permanent at MHF. We believe that reduced working weeks have strong potential as a more widespread measure, and even a social and cultural shift, which can support public mental health.
Read the findings in full in our comprehensive research report on the 32-hour week pilot at the Mental Health Foundation.