Flexible working arrangements to expand to all employees

This month will see the introduction of new changes to the flexible working regulations. Previously, flexible working arrangements could be requested by employees with parental responsibilities if they had worked continuously for their employer for 26 weeks at the date of application or had not filed a request in the previous twelve months.

Changes to legislation will mean that all employees will now have the right to request flexible working arrangements, as long as they have worked continuously for their employer for 26 weeks. However, employers will have the right to refuse requests which negatively impact business operations.

Flexible working can refer to time periods and locations. For example, it can constitute a change in working hours such as part-time; a change in location such as working from home; or a type of working such as a temporary contract.

The Jobsite poll found that 25% of businesses had not considered the impact that legislation changes could have on their operations. However, 56% were of the opinion that flexible working legislation could improve their businesses. 29% were concerned about not having enough manpower under flexible working arrangements, with 23% feeling concerned that they will be unable to accommodate requests.

77% of employees are also unaware of flexible working legislation but 32% believed they would be more productive if they were able to work more flexible hours.