2.3 Making a flexible working request

Since 30 June 2014 every employee in the UK has the statutory right to request flexible working after 26 weeks of employment service. This will not only help those already working to manage life changes and challenges (such as childcare, health or other family commitments), but also encourage those who are returning to work to find a working structure that suits their lifestyle. It is worth knowing about your flexible working rights, even though employees with less than 26 weeks service do not have a statutory right to request flexible working, as some employers may allow all staff to make a request. These are the steps required to make a flexible working request if you are already in work.

To make a request for flexible working employees must:

• make their request in writing, state the date the request is made, the change to working conditions they are seeking, and the date they would like the change to take effect
• state whether they have made a previous application for flexible work and the date of that application
• outline what change to working conditions they are seeking and how they think this may affect the business, for example, cost saving to the business
• state if they are making their request in relation to the Equality Act 2010, for example, as a reasonable adjustment for a disabled employee.

If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland you may well find there are subtle differences to the legislation in operation, so do be aware of this. There are also European directives regarding employment that are worth researching, as these will have implications if you are considering working elsewhere in the European Union.

Now listen to Azu talk about how she negotiated part time working arrangements with her employers.