Reform of the right to request flexible working

Implementation date: Expected autumn 2027

The Employment Rights Act 2025 includes provisions intended to "make flexible working the default". Under the Act, the grounds for refusing a statutory flexible working request will remain the same, but an employer will be able to refuse a request only if it is reasonable to do so. The employer will have to state why it considers its refusal to be reasonable.

The process for employers to follow when responding to a request will be set out in regulations. This will include holding a meeting with the employee before rejecting a request, to consider the feasibility of the arrangement, address challenges and explore alternatives.

In its response to its consultation on improving access to flexible working, the Government stated that these measures will take effect in autumn 2027.