A women's charity in Renfrewshire has moved to a four-day working week with no reduction in pay.

Kairos Women+ implemented the change earlier this year for its nine employees.

The staff now work a 32-hour week instead of the previous full-time 35-hour week.

The charity, which is a community-led women's organisation and runs a Women's Hub in Paisley, has been recognised as a 'Gold Standard' four-day week employer by the 4 Day Week Campaign.

This accreditation is awarded to UK employers who permanently adopt the four-day week.

The movement towards a shorter working week gained momentum during the Covid pandemic and is now being trialled and implemented globally.

Research has shown that a four-day week can boost productivity and improve workers' well-being.

Earlier this year, a study found that 54 out of 61 companies which took part in a six-month UK trial in 2022 are still operating a four-day week a year and a half later.

Katy Wilson-Scott, senior coordinator of Kairos Women+, said: “We are delighted to support the wellbeing of our staff through a reduction in full time hours from 35 to 32 per week.

“This small change has made a big difference, it’s a huge boost to have more time to spend with friends and family, or simply time to focus on the things we love to do.

“That might be hobbies, wellbeing activities or more time to relax with a cuppa.”

Joe Ryle, director of the 4 Day Week Campaign, said: "Congratulations to Kairos Women+ for becoming a four-day week employer.

"With 50 per cent more free time, moving to a four-day week gives workers the freedom to be able to live a happier and better life.

"As hundreds of British companies and one local council have already shown, a four-day week with no loss of pay can be a win-win for both workers and employers.

"The 9-5, five day working week was invented 100 years ago and is no longer fit for purpose. We are long overdue an update."