The Township of Springwater, Ont. is introducing a four-day workweek as part of a five-month pilot program to improve work-life balance for municipal employees.
Starting April 25, employees can voluntarily work longer daily hours in a four-day schedule, according to a press release, which noted these employees will be in one of two groups that will work either from Monday to Thursday or Tuesday to Friday. The program is part of a wider flexible work policy for the township, which also provides options for remote work and hybrid work.
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“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a real trigger for rethinking the world of work,” said Jeff Schmidt, chief administrative officer for the township, in the release. “We’ve been listening to our employees over the past year and have heard how they want and need more flexibility to take better care of their mental health.
“Our goal with this trial is to further establish a culture where we celebrate balance with increased flexibility and trust, resulting in happier and more productive employees.”