Compressed hours 4.5 in 4

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Anyone have any experience of this? I want to drop a day a work to spend more time with my toddler. I think trying to work 5 in 4 would be too much, but this might be a good compromise?

I've known people work compress hours to work 9 days instead of 10, which seems to work well for them. I guess the concern about dropping to 4.5 days is whether a lot more of the day is spent on travel. Also childcare costs may be a relevant factor to consider.

Thanks. Just to be clear, I'm hoping to work 4.5 days spread across 4 days (so 4 slightly longer days). Childcare wise, I'll save a day's nursery fees without losing a whole day's pay, so it should work out better for me.

Yes, I’ve done this since returning from Mat leave in July. I work 8-5 Tues-Fri and have a Mon off. It works well for me!

just wondering OP if you have asked your employer and what they said. I’ve been considering it for quite a few months now but still haven’t decided what to do

I think that works if your childcare is by the day. A lot of nurseries give a discount for full time, so 4 days isn't really a saving

Hello! Yes, I did. My manager was super supportive (even though I've only been in the job a few months) and I've been doing 4.5 over 4 since November. I love it! I have a Friday off with my toddler and I tend to make up the extra half day by starting early / having a shorter lunch on the days I WFH. In reality, I don't think anyone is monitoring my hours too closely, but I try not to take the mick and make sure all my work gets done. It's nice having the flexibility of an extra half day, so that if I ever have to work late or check my emails ok my day off I don't feel resentful.

And ironically, because I'm saving a whole day's nursery fees but have only taken a 10% pay cut, I'm actually financially better off than when I worked 5 days.

Know this is an old thread but came on to say I do 5 in 4 and it's working for me, I have an older child so no nursery though, my work gets done and I feel much better having a longer weekend

That’s brilliant, glad it’s working for you! To the best of my knowledge I’d be the first one asking to do 4.5 days in 4 in my company, but they allow 5 in 4. Good to know it is doable

If 5 in 4 is allowed, I'd be really surprised if 4.5 in 4 isn't, as it will save the company money and they still near on get a full time job out of you. Good luck!