Right to request flexible working hours is extended
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From today onwards, every employee has the statutory right to request flexible working hours after 26 weeks of employment. The right was previously only reserved for certain carers and those looking after children. The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills said that changes will extend the right to request flexible working to 20 million people.
Employees with over 6 months’ service will have the right to expect their request to be considered in a reasonable manner by employers. Those wishing to make a request should do so in writing, stating the date of the request and whether any previous application has been made, and the date of any previous application. Employers must have a sound reason for rejecting any request and they must consider any requests and appeals within three months. Under the regulations, employees can only make one request in any 12 month period.
Employment specialist at DRN, David Rogers said “Employers need to make sure that they update their personnel policies immediately to ensure that they are not falling foul of the new regulations. For further information, I would suggest that employers read the guidance offered on the ACAS website, or alternatively speak to a specialist employment solicitor such as myself or Matthew Finley.”
Contact David on 01282 433241 (Burnley office) or Matthew on 01282 864500 (Colne office)
