How to Successfully Request Flexible Working: A Complete Guide

Key Points

• Flexible working requests allow employees to change their working patterns to better suit their personal needs.
• Employees in the UK have a legal right to request flexible working after 26 weeks of continuous employment.
• Common flexible working options include part-time hours, remote work, compressed hours, and job sharing.
• To make a successful request, it’s essential to provide a clear rationale and demonstrate how your proposal will benefit both you and your employer.
• If your request is denied, you have the right to appeal, and there are steps you can take to improve your chances of success in future requests.

Overview of Flexible Working Requests

In today’s fast-paced world, the traditional 9-to-5 work model is becoming increasingly outdated. Many employees are seeking ways to balance their professional and personal lives more effectively. This is where flexible working arrangements come into play.

Flexible working allows employees to adjust their working hours or location to better fit their lifestyle, whether it’s to care for children, manage health issues, or simply improve work-life balance. In the UK, the right to request flexible working is protected by law, making it essential for both employees and employers to understand the process and implications of such requests.

This article will guide you through the steps to make a successful flexible working request, explore the various options available, and provide insights into how Contend can help you navigate this process with ease.

Understanding Flexible Working

What is Flexible Working?

Flexible working refers to any arrangement that alters the standard working pattern. This can include:

• Part-time work: Reducing the number of hours worked per week.
• Remote work: Working from home or another location instead of the office.
• Compressed hours: Working the same number of hours over fewer days (e.g., four 10-hour days instead of five 8-hour days).
• Job sharing: Two employees sharing the responsibilities of one full-time position.

These arrangements can help employees manage their personal commitments while still fulfilling their professional responsibilities.

Who is Eligible to Request Flexible Working?

In the UK, employees have the legal right to request flexible working if they:

• Have been employed continuously for at least 26 weeks.
• Are an employee (not a worker or self-employed).
• Have not made a flexible working request in the past 12 months.

It’s important to note that while employees have the right to request flexible working, employers are not obligated to grant every request. However, they must consider requests fairly and provide a valid business reason if they refuse.

Steps to Make a Successful Flexible Working Request

1. Assess Your Needs and Options

Before submitting your request, take the time to assess your personal circumstances and determine what type of flexible working arrangement would best suit your needs. Consider:

• What changes you’d like to make (e.g., hours, location).
• How these changes will help you balance work and personal commitments.
• The potential impact on your job performance and team dynamics.

2. Prepare Your Proposal

Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, prepare a detailed proposal outlining your request. Your proposal should include:

• The specific changes you are requesting. For example, if you want to work from home three days a week, specify which days.
• The reasons for your request. Explain how the changes will benefit you and your employer, such as increased productivity or reduced commuting time.
• A plan for how your work will be managed. Address any potential concerns your employer may have about your workload or availability.

3. Submit Your Request

In the UK, flexible working requests must be made in writing. You can use a formal letter or email to submit your request. Make sure to include:

• Your name and job title.
• The date of your request.
• A clear statement that you are requesting flexible working under the statutory right.
• Details of your current working pattern and the changes you are proposing.
• The date you would like the changes to take effect.

4. Attend a Meeting with Your Employer

After submitting your request, your employer is required to arrange a meeting to discuss it. This is an opportunity for you to:

• Elaborate on your proposal.
• Address any concerns your employer may have.
• Be open to negotiation. Sometimes, a compromise can lead to a successful outcome.

5. Await the Decision

Your employer must respond to your request within three months of your initial application. They can either:

• Accept the request.
• Propose an alternative arrangement.
• Reject the request, providing a valid business reason.

If your request is denied, your employer should explain their reasoning clearly.

6. Appeal if Necessary

If you feel your request has not been fairly considered, you have the right to appeal. This process typically involves:

• Writing to your employer outlining the reasons for your appeal.
• Requesting a meeting to discuss the decision further.
• Providing any additional information that may support your case.

Common Reasons for Request Denials

Understanding the common reasons why flexible working requests may be denied can help you prepare a stronger proposal. Some typical reasons include:

• Business needs: The employer may argue that the requested changes would negatively impact the business operations or team dynamics.
• Increased costs: If your request involves additional costs (e.g., hiring temporary staff), the employer may reject it.
• Insufficient coverage: If your role is critical and cannot be covered by another employee, your request may be turned down.

Best Practices for a Successful Request

Be Clear and Concise

When drafting your proposal, ensure that it is straightforward and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and keep your language simple.

Stay Professional

Regardless of the outcome, maintain a professional tone throughout the process. This will help build a positive relationship with your employer and may lead to more favorable outcomes in the future.

Document Everything

Keep records of all communications related to your request, including emails, meeting notes, and any feedback received. This documentation can be valuable if you need to appeal or revisit the request later.

How Contend Can Help

Navigating the world of flexible working requests can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding your rights and the legal implications involved. At Contend, we are here to provide you with the legal guidance you need to make an informed request.

Our AI legal experts can help you:

• Draft a compelling flexible working request.
• Understand your rights as an employee in the UK.
• Prepare for meetings with your employer by providing insights into potential questions and concerns.

With Contend, you can access trusted legal support tailored to your unique situation, ensuring you have the best chance of success.

Chat with Contend Today!

Are you ready to take the next step in making a successful flexible working request? Don’t navigate this process alone. Chat now with Contend’s AI legal expert and get clear, personalized guidance in minutes. Your work-life balance is important, and we’re here to help you achieve it!

For more info, check out some of our related articles:

• Flex Hour Jobs in the UK: Your Guide to Flexible Working
• UK Guide: Securing Flexible Hours Jobs & Handling Denials
• Out of Hours Jobs in the UK: Balancing Work-Life & Rights
• UK Guide: Request Flexible Working for Better Work-Life Balance
• Requesting Flexible Work in the UK: A Parent’s Guide to Balance