Shorter working days – for better balance and health
Boden Municipality is introducing a trial period with shorter working days within the Individual and Family Services department. From 16 September, employees will finish their working day at 16.00 every weekday. The trial runs until 31 December 2027 and means a reduction of one working hour per day, equivalent to a 35-hour week, with retained salary.
In recent years, staff turnover within Individual and Family Services has been high. With this initiative, Boden Municipality wants to create better conditions for long-term stability, both for employees and for the people who use the service.
“Boden Municipality wants to be an attractive employer. It will be easier to recruit when vacancies arise, and with staff in place the workload for existing employees can be more evenly distributed,” says Anette Marks, Head of Department.
Other municipalities that have introduced shorter working hours have seen positive effects both for staff and for the quality of services.
“As a parent of young children, I see the shorter working hours as something very positive, which will help me find a better balance between work and family and provide necessary recovery,” says Tomas Joneland, social worker.
Important for both employees and clients
The aim of the trial is to improve the working environment, reduce stress and create a better balance between work and leisure. An improved working environment is also expected to contribute to more stability for clients.
Availability will remain high and urgent matters will still be handled after 16.00.
“We want to promote employees’ health by providing better opportunities for recovery and balance between work and leisure,” says Anette Marks.
The trial will be continuously monitored and evaluated in terms of working environment, health, quality and economy.
This news article was also published in Boden Bild issue 2–2025. Curious about more news from Boden Bild? Explore the full collection.
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Text by: Municipality of Boden
Photo by: Frida Shipley /Municipality of Boden
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