South Cambridgeshire District Council has voted to become the first council in the UK to permanently adopt a four-day week.
The move means staff will be expected to carry out all of their work in around 80% of their contracted hours, without reduction in pay.
The decision follows findings by the Universities of Salford, Bradford and Cambridge that 21 of 24 services have improved or stayed the same since the four-day week was introduced on a trial basis in 2023.
Council leader Cllr Bridget Smith said: ‘When planned carefully and with a laser focus on performance, the four-day week helps people focus better and work more efficiently.
‘With the right structure and support, teams can deliver just as much – if not more – while also having more time for their wellbeing and personal lives.’
Cllr Heather Williams, leader of the Conservative opposition, said: ‘We have a choice. We can show residents that we support them – it’s a slap in the face when people are taking on increased council tax while their money is spent to give people a day off every week. It’s not right, it’s not fair, and there is no reliable proof that it works.’
