Apotek Hjärtat, a major Swedish pharmacy chain, is piloting a "friendcare" scheme offering employees paid time off to combat loneliness, a program that began in April and involves 11 participants. The initiative grants participants like 45-year-old pharmacy worker Yasmine Lindberg 15 minutes per week, or an hour per month, during working hours to focus on strengthening friendships or making new ones. Lindberg, who works at the company's Kalmar outlet, reported feeling "quite lonely" since separating from her partner four years ago.

The program comes as the Swedish government urges businesses to play a role in tackling loneliness. Lindberg explained that she often feels too tired to socialize after work, stating, "I'm really tired when I go home. I don't have time or energy to meet my friends."

The financial impact of the "friendcare" scheme on Apotek Hjärtat has not been disclosed, but the company views it as an investment in employee well-being. The pilot program's success will be measured by employee feedback and its potential impact on productivity and job satisfaction. Apotek Hjärtat has not yet released data on whether the "friendship hour" has led to a measurable change in employee well-being or productivity.

The broader context of the initiative is Sweden's increasing focus on social well-being and mental health in the workplace. Other companies in Sweden are exploring similar initiatives to address employee loneliness and promote social connection. The results of Apotek Hjärtat's pilot program could influence future workplace policies and practices across the country. The company plans to evaluate the pilot program's results in the coming months to determine whether to expand the initiative to other locations.