A bold proposal to introduce a four-day working week for Coventry City Council staff will be put before councillors next week, aiming to improve wellbeing and cut costs.
Motion Inspired by Existing Success
Councillor Grace Lewis is spearheading the move, which has already gained support from Councillor Esther Reeves. The motion points to the council's own waste services, where employees already operate on a condensed schedule, as a local example.
The proposal highlights growing evidence from both public and private sectors that a shorter week can deliver major benefits. These are said to include better staff health and morale, improved recruitment and retention, maintained or even increased productivity, and reduced spending on temporary agency workers.
Pointing to a Proven Model
Cllr Lewis's motion specifically cites the trial at South Cambridgeshire District Council as a successful blueprint. It claims that after switching to a four-day week, core services like bin collections and planning were maintained or enhanced.
Meanwhile, job applications reportedly soared by 120%, staff turnover fell by 40%, and the authority saved an estimated £370,000 per year.
Challenging Central Government Guidance
The motion also addresses what it calls a 'concerning' recent letter from Local Government Secretary Steve Reed, which discourages councils from adopting four-day weeks.
It argues that following this stance "may limit Coventry's ability to attract and retain skilled staff, reduce agency spend, and position it as a forward thinking employer, thereby impacting the council's reputation."
The full resolution to be debated includes several key actions:
- Exploring the feasibility of a council-wide four-day week, starting by identifying which departments would benefit most.
- Consulting with staff on implementation methods that avoid service disruption, such as staggered schedules.
- Creating a timeline for any potential pilot scheme and subsequent rollout.
- Piloting, monitoring, and reporting on outcomes using metrics like staff wellbeing, productivity, resident service delivery, and cost reduction.
- Formally responding to Steve Reed's letter by advocating for flexible and innovative employment practices in local government.
The motion will be discussed at a full council meeting scheduled for the coming week, where all councillors will have the chance to debate its merits.
