Ask a Lawyer for: changing an existing flexible working policy that is contractually binding allegations of discrimination made in connection with a flexible working request. This flexible working policy is governed by the law of England and Wales or the law of Scotland.

Flexible Working Policy UK Template

Overview of the Flexible working policy

This document is GDPR compliant.

Clearly outline to your staff and managers the statutory flexible working practices with this flexible working policy. Keep your employees informed on the types of flexible working and who is eligible to make such a request. This flexible working policy covers how these requests will be considered, potential reasons for refusing a request, and informal flexible working requests that fall outside the statutory system.

When should I use a flexible working policy?

Use this flexible working policy

to explain to staff and managers the statutory flexible working regime

What's included in a flexible working policy?

This flexible working policy covers

types of flexible working
who is eligible to make a statutory flexible working request
reasons for refusing a request
the effect of a successful request on the contract of employment
informal flexible working requests outside the statutory regime

What's a flexible working policy?

A flexible working policy is a policy that sets out the flexible working arrangements that are available within a workplace.

Do I need a flexible working policy?

Putting in place a flexible working policy ensures your staff are informed on the types of flexible working they can request. It helps them understand the process of making and dealing with requests. Having a flexible working policy also helps your business comply with the law and shows that your business is eager to offer staff a good work-life balance.

What types of flexible working can the policy offer?

Flexible working include:

working from home
working part-time
annualised or compressed hours
term-time working
job-sharing

What are the qualifying criteria to request flexible working?

To be eligible to make a formal request for flexible working, the staff must:

be an employee (ie not a worker or consultant);
have at least 26 weeks of continuous employment; and
have not made a formal flexible working request in the previous 12 months.

If you are not eligible to request flexible working under the formal process, you can always make an informal request outside the statutory regime.

What's the process for making a formal flexible working request?

The process to request flexible working should start with an informal discussion with a line manager, followed by a flexible working application setting out the proposed working pattern. The request should ideally be submitted at least two months before the changes could take effect.

Further advice

Ask a Lawyer for:

changing an existing flexible working policy that is contractually binding
allegations of discrimination made in connection with a flexible working request.

This flexible working policy is governed by the law of England and Wales or the law of Scotland.

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