What is 4ugust?

The 4ugust initiative was started by the 4 Day Week Campaign in collaboration with Autonomy. Launched in 2024, the initiative encourages companies to trial a four-day workweek during the month of August. This project is an opportunity for organisations to experiment with shorter workweeks and assess the potential benefits, such as improved employee well-being and productivity.

“We were thrilled to offer our employees this opportunity. Our people are our greatest asset and the 4ugust initiative perfectly aligned with our values of work-life balance and commitment to doing good.” – Paul Starr, CEO of SEP2

The Benefits of a 4 day work week initiative at SEP2

This year, SEP2 proudly participated in the 4ugust initiative giving everyone across all teams the chance to enjoy a four-day work week. This initiative reflects SEP2’s commitment to our core values: being people-powered and committed to doing good. By embracing this progressive work schedule, SEP2 aimed to boost employee well-being and job satisfaction.

The decision to join the 4ugust initiative was driven by SEP2’s recognition of the importance of work-life balance. The company directors believe that a well-rested and happy team is more productive, creative, and engaged. By offering a four-day work week, SEP2 hoped to give employees more time to recharge, practise their hobbies and spend quality time with their families.

Besides the 4ugust initiative, SEP2 has rolled out other programs to support employee well-being, such as the introduction of Mental Health First Aiders (MFHA). These trained employees can provide immediate support and guidance to their colleagues experiencing mental health challenges.

Overall, SEP2’s participation in the 4ugust initiative and its ongoing commitment to employee well-being underscore the company’s belief in the importance of a strong work-life balance. By putting employee needs first, SEP2 aims to create a positive and productive workplace where everyone can thrive.

4ugust at SEP2

The SEP2 team made the most of their extra days off by pursuing hobbies, spending quality time with family, traveling, and enjoying an additional day to relax and unwind. Here’s how the SEP2 team made the most of their time off!

Dave Gore: “For my first 4ugust day me and Liz Gore decided to go to the cinema. What a great gift from from the SEP2 board / SLT.”

Johan Van Rooyen: “Maggie & Olive joined the household last weekend, so I’ve been spending time getting them settled into their new home.”

Natalie Swallow: “Henry and I donned our hard hats and took a very jolt-y ride 140m down to explore an old coal mine. Very grateful for these additional days with my boy – thanks SEP2!”

Corin McCourt: “Taking a refreshing 4ugust break away from the office, perfect for recharging in this summer heat! Huge thanks to SEP2 for the initiative. I spent the day exploring Illusionaries in Canary Wharf—an incredible visual experience that’s worth every penny.”

John Tammaro: “Took the family out to play basketball in the glorious weather.”

Fabian Reid: “Big thank you to SEP2 for the 4ugust day, allowing me to spend more time with my family. This week’s 4ugust day was all rough and tumble at Jump Inc.”

Mathew Johnson: “This week we had a family trip to the seaside and my son had his first go riding a bike which was great.”

Laura Bird: “I’ve had a lovely, relaxing day today courtesy of SEP2’s 4ugust initiative. Having a day just to recharge and have some alone time is most welcome.”

Sophia Moreno: “My 4ugust day was spent enjoying the seaside at Filey with my husband and our daughter. 4ugust is the perfect chance to get up and go see new places with my family!”