The firm introduced the progressive working model in January 2020, reducing hours by 20 per cent, from 37.5 to 30 hours per week, with no reduction in pay.

The initiative applies across all JMK offices in Belfast city centre, west Belfast, Newry and Derry.

Co‑founder Maurece Hutchinson said: “Putting people first has always been one of our core values. When we introduced the four‑day week, our aim was to make a meaningful difference to our team’s wellbeing without compromising the high standards our clients expect. Six years on, we can confidently say that this approach works.

“Our people are happier, our service remains exceptional, and our clients continue to recommend us at a rate of 99 per cent. Time is one of the most valuable benefits an employer can offer, and we are proud to have been among the first in Northern Ireland to take this step.

“Achieving the Lexcel Quality Mark for the eighth consecutive year provides a further quality assurance for our clients and reinforces our ongoing commitment to excellence in client care and practice management.”

Managing director Louise Mone added: “This initiative followed a detailed two‑year research project that began in 2018, focused on improving quality of life for our people. The enthusiasm from our team was immediate, and it has only grown stronger.

“Our most recent staff survey shows that 82 per cent of employees feel the four-day week has enabled them to achieve a good work‑life balance, which reinforces the long‑term success of the initiative.

“As we mark over 20 years in business and more than a decade as Northern Ireland’s number one personal injury firm, our commitment of delivering the best possible experience for our clients remains.

“Six years on, the four-day week continues to strengthen our business, support our people, and enhance the service we provide to clients across Northern Ireland.”