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hrive , a fast-growth all-in-one learning technology company , released findings from the UK ’ s first medical trial of the four-day work week in partnership with the University of Sussex , revealing significant improvements in both physical and mental wellbeing and productivity , but some challenges on a business level .

The trial ran for three months between July and October 2024 and collected data on Thrive employees , incorporating research tests such as MRI scans , blood tests and sleep tracking . All participants completed a set of questionnaires on a weekly basis covering workplace experience and wellbeing , while regular feedback was taken from Thrive customers to determine any impact on quality of service . Sales and product metrics were also evaluated to assess business productivity .

Four-day work week demonstrates physical and mental health benefits

According to the trial results , notable improvements were seen in employee wellbeing , particularly related to stress levels , sleep quality and detachment from work .

Participants experienced on average :

• A 22.5 % increase in psychological detachment from work , indicating a significant improvement in worklife balance

• A 21 % increase in overall wellbeing , and a 20 % reduction in sleep problems

• A considerable 8.6 % reduction in perceived stress and a 6.2 % improvement in sleep quality after the trial period

• Emotional exhaustion burnout decreased by 14.7 %, while depersonalisation burnout saw a slight decrease of 2.3 %

• Feelings of personal accomplishment increased by 11.4 %

• Anxiety symptoms saw a statistically significant 5 % reduction by the end of the trial . Notable decreases were also observed in stress and depression

“ The results speak for themselves ,” said Dr Charlotte Rae , Research Lead , University of Sussex . “ These significant improvements in areas related to physical and mental wellbeing demonstrate the transformative power of a four-day work week . Improved sleep quality and reduced stress and exhaustion are factors that could have a significant impact on our health , with the potential to enhance our lives in and outside of work . This study provides further compelling evidence for the benefits of flexible working models .”

Impact on workplace productivity

In terms of overall performance , despite working fewer hours , task execution remained consistent . Positive results were observed regarding goal attainment , which increased 19.4 % with staff also reporting a 9.3 % increase in self-efficacy , reflecting a boost in their confidence and belief in their ability to achieve desired outcomes at work . Statistical analysis found a significant difference between the average level of goal attainment before and during the trial .

While major improvements were recorded from a wellbeing and productivity perspective , some impacts were observed at a business level , particularly when it came to providing consistent customer service . Thrive will consequently look to implement a four-day work week on a seasonal basis going forward .

Cassie Gasson , Co-CEO , Thrive , said : “ While we would have loved to implement it on a full time basis , our experiences in the trial also highlighted that the success of a four-day work week will rely on widespread cultural change across the UK business landscape . As a business serving hundreds of organisations , it highlighted that five-day coverage for our customers is essential when they ’ re operating more traditional ways of working .” �

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