http://www.pledgebank.com/Bristolday Comments on 'give my staff the day off on 'Bristol Day' - an unofficial bank holiday, 26th October 2007,' en-gb team@pledgebank.com hourly 2 1901-01-01T00:00+00:00 http://www.pledgebank.com/Bristolday#comment_1167808 Hi Stephen, One of the key motivations for this is to create more time for people to spend with friends and family, which is reckoned to be one of the key things that contributes to people's sense of well-being. So I can see the worry, but I think we need to be examining more closely what purpose work serves: productivity and competitiveness are important, but equally work should also be compatible with other aspects of life. I think the UK may be working too many hours unnecessarily. Our business Team Rubber works below-average hours for our sector, and has effectively doubled profit and turnover in the last 12 months. I'd like to see Bristol take a lead on attracting innovative companies that can achieve this kind of performance and commitment to quality of life. Holidays are also a major factor in attracting and retaining talented staff, which is a key issue for competitiveness and productivity. On the community front, we've found the TUC are running a campaign for 'Community Day': http://www.tuc.org.uk/work_life/tuc-13325-f0.cfm So TUC have a great idea, but I'm a bit suspicious of the title 'community day'. I think we have enough days with well-meaning titles to promote issues. Bristol Day is more fun! - and community action couuld still be encouraged. http://www.pledgebank.com/Bristolday#comment_1164912 I think it will be good for productivity and staff morale. http://www.pledgebank.com/Bristolday#comment_1162086 I like the concept but I am sure the city council and other large employers would be worried by any possible negative backlash - it could be seen as a sign that Bristol is unproductive or even lazy? Instead of a day off, could 'Bristol Day' be a day where employees spend time doing something positive in the city or their local area??? http://www.pledgebank.com/Bristolday#comment_1149877 Accessibility Works are on board Andy (but I'm the only employee). Bring on that day off. http://www.pledgebank.com/Bristolday#comment_1143924 Want more information before you sign the pledge? Want to get involved? Want to debate whether this is a good idea? Mail me directly, andy@teamrubber.com cheers, Andy Director - Team Rubber, Bristol