Bridging Science and Practice

Connecting Academic Research to Workplace Wellbeing and Productivity 

Sheela Hobden, founder of Bluegreen Coaching, is among the first participants in a groundbreaking University of Sussex study exploring the impact of a four-day working week on wellbeing and productivity.

Driven by her own research into the effects of workplace coaching on wellbeing, Sheela saw a clear synergy with the Sussex 4 Day Week programme. Although she had never previously collaborated with a university, Sheela immediately recognised the value of translating academic research into practical, real-world solutions. “Participating in this wellbeing study was important to me, as my coaching work emphasises the importance of looking after one’s own wellbeing. So far, the experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and I am keen to continue to help in bridging the gap between research and practice,” she explained. 

The University of Sussex, supported by a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship award, is partnering with companies interested in understanding how working hours relate to staff performance and wellbeing. Through the Sussex 4 Day Week programme, SMEs and micro-businesses across the UK can participate in scientific research, including optional MRI brain scans, and receive bespoke productivity training as well as detailed reports on staff wellbeing and performance. Employers may choose to trial a four-day working week, with full support from the Sussex team, or join a control group maintaining current hours. All participants benefit from custom data insights and staff training, while research participants are reimbursed for their time. 

Dr Charlotte Rae, Principal Investigator and Founder of Sussex 4 Day Week, is leading  the initiative. With expertise in the biology of wellbeing at work and over three years of experience helping organisations trial reduced working weeks, Dr Rae ensures each business receives comprehensive support and actionable insights. The programme is delivered at no cost to employers, thanks to UKRI funding. 

Businesses interested in joining this innovative research project are encouraged to connect, like Bluegreen coaching, via NCUB’s konfer platform. With increasing interest in flexible working, this study aims to provide valuable data and guidance to help companies make informed decisions about the future of work. 

Connect with the team at University of Sussex. 

Find opportunities to collaborate.