Motion 70
4 Day Week
“That this Congress recognises the importance of the four-day, 28-hour week - a central element of the PCS Scottish sector pay claim - and the persistent efforts of unions in championing this cause, we celebrate the progress made in advocating for a shorter working week without any reduction in pay or terms and conditions.
“Congress acknowledges the idea of a shorter working week has been gaining momentum, thanks in large part to the dedication of our activists and representatives who have tirelessly campaigned for this transformative change. Their perseverance is beginning to yield promising results.
“We commend the commitment of the Scottish Government to conduct a public sector trial of the four-day week, which involves various public bodies, including the South of Scotland Enterprise. This is a significant step towards realising the potential benefits of a shorter working week in the public sector.
“In April 2021, PCS collaborated with the thinktank, Autonomy, to conduct a research project demonstrating the feasibility of a shorter working week within the Scottish Government. The lessons learned from this research are transferable to other public and civil service bodies, illustrating that a reduction in working hours can be both practical and advantageous.
“While it is encouraging that many workers will experience a reduction in their 37-hour workweek to a 35-hour workweek as part of their employer’s pay offer this year, we understand that this is just the beginning of our journey towards achieving a four day week.
“Congress calls on the General Council to:
- assist affiliates in coordinating strategies to reducing the working week and the sharing of best practice;
- facilitate the development of cross-union organising strategies to implement a shorter working week across various sectors and industries; and
- support the work of PCS and sister unions in their pursuit of a four-day working week.”
Mover: Public & Commercial Services Union
RSS