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Flexible Working Policy Changes
Amendments to the UK Flexible Working Regulations mean that all employees can now request flexible working after 26 weeks' service. Previously, the right to request flexibility (in terms of hours worked, reducing from full time to part time or job sharing) were limited to those with dependents.
Employers will need to review their flexible working policy or create a new policy to accommodate these changes.
Although employers have a duty to consider all requests in a ‘reasonable manner’, the decision of whether to refuse a request (on business grounds) sits with the employer. Requests should be considered carefully by weighing up the benefits for both the employee and the company against the cost of implementing any changes. Where a request for flexible working is declined, employees should be given the right to appeal the decision.
If you are unsure how the change might impact your business, what the definitions of the regulations are, or what your rights and responsibilities are as an employer, please contact us