Right to request flexible working

New and updated

• Type:

  FAQs

  How should an employer respond to a request for flexible working?

  Updated to reflect changes to the process for dealing with statutory flexible working requests, in place from 6 April 2024.

• Type:

  FAQs

  Is there any right of appeal where an employer rejects an application for flexible working?

  Updated to reflect that, from 6 April 2024, employers must inform the employee of their decision on a flexible working request within two months.

• Type:

  FAQs

  Can employees make as many requests for flexible working as they wish?

  Updated to reflect that, from 6 April 2024, employees can make two flexible working requests in any 12-month period.

• Type:

  FAQs

  Where a statutory application for flexible working is acceptable as it stands, is the employer obliged to arrange a meeting to discuss the request?

  Updated to reflect changes to the right to request flexible working in place from 6 April 2024, including that the employer must respond within two months. 

• Type:

  FAQs

  If an employee withdraws their statutory application for flexible working can they then make another request?

  Updated to reflect that, from 6 April 2024, employees can make two statutory flexible working requests in any 12-month period.

• Type:

  FAQs

  Can an employer use a trial period to test whether a proposed flexible working arrangement would work?

  Updated to reflect that the time limit for responding to flexible working requests made on or after 6 April 2024 is reduced to two months. 

• Type:

  FAQs

  Does an employee have the right to be accompanied at a meeting to discuss a statutory request for flexible working?

  Updated to reflect the updated version of the Acas code, applicable from 6 April 2024.

• Type:

  FAQs

  What should an employer do if an older employee requests to change their working pattern in preparation for retirement?

  Updated to reflect changes to the right to request flexible working in place from 6 April 2024, including a requirement to consult with the employee.

• Type:

  FAQs

  What is a statutory flexible working request?

  Updated to reflect changes to the right to request flexible working in place from 6 April 2024, including that it is now a day-one right. 

• Type:

  FAQs

  What is the time limit within which an employer must respond to a request for flexible working?

  Updated to reflect that the time limit for requests made on or after 6 April 2024 is reduced to two months.