Condensing a work week following an ASD diagnosis

[OpenToSuggestions]

Following this thread (which was useful before it got derailed by some dipsticks):
https://forums.overclockers.co.uk/threads/autism-diagnosis-as-an-adult.18937278/

At my employer's request I have completed a workplace assessment.
One of the recommendations is for a condensed work week. I have opened discussions with management on what this actually means. They are being responsive.

My situation is:
Design Engineer
Mid 30s
Over 100k equity in my house
No other debts
Overpay the mortgage each month by £300, such that I am on track to own the house outright by my early 50s.
Save £300 per month into various saving schemes (shares and Lifetime ISA mostly)
Pay into a pension so that the company matches their max amount
No kids (no plans)
Paid overtime.

My proposal is instead of doing a 37h week over 5 days, do 34h over 4 days, which loses me a little over £200 per month but makes every weekend a 3 day weekend. This reduction will be accounted for by reducing my spending on work food (often buy two meals at work per day) and drop the monthly share/LISA savings.

I think I would be mad not to pursue this, but I would value the opinion of others who can look objectively.

 

[OpenToSuggestions]

I have reached the age I am with little to no help and I am very hard on myself in the workplace. Working 5 days takes it totally out of me at times, however I had to do it as without a good reason people expect full time (plus extra on top). It could be worse as I could have never received a diagnosis . It is a shame that men are often expected to work a 45+ hour week.
A three day weekend every weekend sounds incredible to me.

I have flexible hours Mon-Fri and typically work a shorter Friday anyway.
The idea for 3h per week is so I can largely maintain the same lifestyle. I am responsible with finances where I can be. I could do 32h if I wanted, but the pay scales down accordingly.
In all cases I have to approach HR with the proposal.

 

[OpenToSuggestions]

The 34h idea was my request. I would like to trial it first.
I agree with most of the comments about potentially losing out on career progression or being expected to stay late on the Thursday. I'm at the point where I can confidently tell them no, then tell them where to stick it with the backlash.

I have been in the position where I am needed to stay late last minute before. It is not fun and basically makes you a doormat.

 

[OpenToSuggestions]

I tried a 3 and 4 day week when I left a long time permanent job. I found I kept being asked to do longer days or help out on the 5th day, Which I wasn't getting paid for.
I did it for 3 to 4 months then quit. I wanted the 5th day for my own projects, which I never got time for. The only time I've worked only my allotted hours is in public sector jobs. But it often tends on the actually business area you are in.

I don't blame you for leaving. Working unpaid is not work, it is taking the wee.

 

[OpenToSuggestions]

An update as it has been a while.
I have been taking Fridays off for the last few weeks as holiday.

As of 1st Jan I have changed my contract to 34h per week from 37h. I will no longer work Fridays. This means my Mon to Thurs is slightly longer but that's alright with me.
I have come to terms with a pay cut but can accommodate it.

My workplace are happy with my current performance and still wish me to lead projects going forward.

It is for a 6m trial.

I have been asked during busy times if I could work more but I'd get it back easily enough.

Thanks for the help all .

 

[OpenToSuggestions]

Did you want the reduced hours/pay cut? Or was that part of the deal they imposed? It doesn't strike me as particularly fair, surely you could keep your total hours and still work 4 days a week.

I chose all of it .

That's great news. The update is appreciated. Might help others in a similar situation to ask.

I hope so too .