Home » Blog » Are you ready for a flexible working request?

With all the changes this year people are thinking about working from home on a permanent basis or on a part time basis.  Before it just happens, it is important to address the changes.  The correct process, if it is a request from the employee, then they have to follow the correct process of putting in a Flexible Working Request which is

The request must be

• In writing
• Be dated
• Be clear that it is a request for flexible working
• Be clear about the change the employee would like to make
• State the date the employee would like the change to start
• Outline the benefits the employee thinks the change would make to their role and to their employer – and how any changes could be dealt with
• Mention whether any previous application for flexible working has been made to that employer and if so, when

It is important that the employee addresses how the change will impact on the business.   If they want to reduce their hours, what happens to their work when they are not there, does someone else pick up the work, is there someone that can do it?  If they want to work from home on a permanent basis, how will they ensure their team knows how and when to contact them, how many times do they have to come into the office and the reasons why.  This is not for the employer to resolve.  They can help and give support, but they are not providing the solution.

As an employer you have the right to refuse a flexible request on the following grounds.

• There will be a burden of additional costs
• It will have a detrimental effect on ability to meet customer demand
• It would not be possible to re-organise work among existing staff
• You would be unable to recruit additional staff
• It would have a negative impact on quality
• It would have a detrimental impact on performance
• Insufficiency of work during the periods the employee proposes to work
• You have planned structural changes

Remember an employee can only put in a request every 12 months.  If a change is agreed, then it is a good idea to trial it for three months to ensure it works for both parties.

Yes, this is a minefield and if not done properly can go terribly wrong.  So, let us help you through the process, call us on 01483 697 076.

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