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Right to request flexible working

Stephen SimpsonEditor's message: Some important changes to the statutory right to request flexible working are expected to take effect on 6 April 2024. The key changes include:

  • making the statutory right to request flexible working a day-one right;
  • giving employees the right to make two requests, rather than one, in a 12-month period;
  • removing the requirement that an employee must explain what effect, if any, that their request would have on the employer and how that might be dealt with;
  • requiring employers to respond to a request within two months, rather than the current three months; and
  • placing an obligation on an employer to consult with an employee before rejecting a request.

Stephen Simpson, principal HR strategy and practice editor

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