The Sussex 4 Day Week research team outside the Houses of Parliament

Professor Charlotte Rae presents on the panel at the Working Time Council launch

Last month, researchers from the School of Psychology met with MPs, business leaders and the 4 Day Week Foundation at the launch of the new Working Time Council in the Houses of Parliament. The Council brings together industry figures, policymakers, trade unions, and research experts to test and model the impact of shorter working weeks on the economy and society.

During the event, the Sussex 4 Day Week research team spoke to attendees from across sectors who have already adopted shorter working week models. The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect academic research with real-world practice in shaping the future of work. 

Peter Dowd MP highlighted the role policymakers must play in helping industries navigate the future of work, noting that any implementation should ultimately be driven by businesses themselves and by evidence of what is effective for them.

As part of the launch, Professor Charlotte Rae, founder of Sussex 4 Day Week, took part in a panel discussion where she shared findings from her ongoing research into how shorter working weeks influence mental health, productivity, and brain function. Reflecting on the event, Professor Rae said:

"The hosting of the inaugural Working Time Council in Parliament indicates the level of interest in the potential societal impacts of working time reduction. We were really excited to be able to share our research findings on how shorter working weeks impact staff wellbeing, productivity, and health with key stakeholders. The research team look forward to sharing more research insights with policymakers and practitioners. In the meantime, the trial is still open for SMEs who would like to trial a shorter working week with us."

Doctoral student Tessa Graftdijk, who attended the launch as part of her PhD research, commented:

"The Working Time Council in Parliament offered a great opportunity to learn more about others' experiences with the four-day week and the work that has been carried out on the topic. We also discussed potential benefits and challenges with individuals from a range of industries and backgrounds. I feel fortunate to be part of a project with such strong potential to make a real-world difference, and I look forward to taking part in further research-sharing activities with our team."

The Sussex 4 Day Week research project is looking for control employers to join trials for the first 3 months of 2026. If you know someone who works in a local business, and would like to take part as a control participant, please contact Charlotte Rae.

Photo credits: 4 day Week Foundation and Placement Research Assistant Rowan Wood & Postdoc Nick Soulter.