Contact adopts four-day working week for better work-life balance

Contact, a Manchester-based theatre and arts centre, has decided to adopt a four-day working week permanently after a successful trial.

This approach follows the 100:80:100 model, providing 100% pay for 80% of the time, while maintaining full productivity.

Jack Dale-Dowd, CEO of Contact, said: “The adoption of the 100:80:100 model on a permanent basis is a great step forward for Contact and the wider sector.

“People’s lives have changed from the standard work week and I’m really proud that we’ve been able to be at the forefront of this development, whilst maintaining to deliver huge impact for our young people and communities.”

Contact found the trial to be a positive experience, with staff using the extra day for voluntary work, education, and caring responsibilities.

Adam Steed, production manager at Contact, said: “Contact’s approach to the working week has opened up opportunities within the industry for me.

“I’m able to engage with additional contracts and keep creatively contributing as a theatre maker, whilst still being part of Contact and its wider community.

“This has enabled me to develop new skills which I can bring back and utilise in our theatre.”

Another employee appreciated the time for ‘life admin,’ which helped them focus fully on work during the four working days.

To implement the four-day week, Contact closes its building on Mondays, maintaining consistent operations.

Despite trade-offs, such as not offering free space or venue hires on that day, the balance has been crucial for success.

The firm consulted staff and address concerns, ensuring the new structure worked well before making it permanent.

However, challenges remain, like managing holiday allowance, as some staff struggle to take their full entitlement.

Senior leadership and HR roles also face scheduling challenges, which Contact is working to balance.

Contact said it believes flexibility is vital and has moved forward with flexible and hybrid working models.

This aims to improve staff wellbeing and productivity in the arts and culture sector, with the organisation committed to this change.