Managers guide to handling a flexible working request
If you have received a flexible working request, this model guide sets out an effective, legal framwork to follow when handling it, and determining your response.
- 3 pages / 831 words
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text
- Suitable for United Kingdom use only
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Managers guide to handling a flexible working request
Introduction
Managing flexible working applications is crucial for fostering a supportive and productive work environment.
This guide outlines the process for handling flexible working applications in accordance with UK employment legislation and best practice processes. It includes sections on managing both temporary and permanent changes.
1. Understanding Flexible Working Applications
Flexible working can include changes to working hours, patterns, or locations.
Employees in the UK have the legal right to request flexible working from day one of employment, provided they have not made more than one flexible working request in the last 12 months. In Northern Ireland, employees must have 26 weeks of continuous service before making a request and can only make one request per year.
2. The Application Process
Step 1: Submission of Request
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Employees must submit a formal written request.
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The request should include the desired change and the proposed start date.
Step 2: Acknowledgment
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Acknowledge receipt of the request in writing within 7 days.
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Outline the process and timeline for consideration.
Step 3: Meeting
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Unless you agree to the employee's written request in full, you must consult the employee before you make a decision.
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Allow the employee to be accompanied by a colleague or union representative if they wish.
Step 4: Consideration
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Assess the request based on business needs, potential benefits, and potential challenges.
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Consider the impact on workload, team dynamics, and overall operational effectiveness.
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This Managers guide to handling a flexible working request aims to offer you a versatile and customisable tool, serving as a solid foundation for your needs. Utilise it to ensure consistency, enhance accuracy, and save valuable time.
Adapt it to suit your unique requirements, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in your HR processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Managers guide to handling a flexible working request is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
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Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
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Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
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Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
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What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
