Flexible working rejection appeal letter template
Our flexible working appeal letter template can help employees formally challenge a rejected flexible working request. It provides a clear and professional structure to outline their reasons for appeal and seek a reconsideration.
- 1 page / 226 words.
- Last updated 16/09/2025.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Flexible working rejection appeal letter
[Sender name]
[Sender address]
[date]
[Recipient name]
[Recipient address]
Dear [Recipient first name],
Thank you for your response dated [insert date of response letter] to my flexible working request dated [insert date of request]. I am disappointed my request has been rejected. I am writing to appeal this decision for the reason(s) I explain below.
As you know, I submitted a request to [describe reasons for application, e.g to work from home two days a week in order to better balance my work and personal responsibilities].
You have refused my request for flexible working because [state the reason(s) given by the employer to refuse your request].
I understand that my initial request may not have been possible due to business needs, but I strongly believe that accommodating my request would not negatively impact the company's operations. In fact, I believe that it would enhance my productivity and allow me to better contribute to the success of the company.
I am willing to work with you to find a compromise that meets the needs of both the company and myself. I am willing to adjust my schedule or work with a different arrangement that suits both parties.
I respectfully request that you reconsider my request for flexible working arrangements. I hope that we can come to a mutually beneficial solution that allows me to continue to be a valuable member of the team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours [faithfully | sincerely],
[Sender name]
[Sender job title]
[Sender telephone]
[Sender email]
[For, and on behalf of [Company name] ]
If your request for flexible working has been rejected, you have the option to appeal by writing a formal appeal letter.
You may wish to appeal if you believe:
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Your request was reasonable and could be accommodated without negatively impacting the business
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Your current work schedule is affecting your personal life, and flexible working would help you achieve a better work-life balance
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A compromise can be found that works for both you and your employer
An appeal provides an opportunity to reopen the discussion and explore a solution that meets both your needs and those of the company.
It is usually delivered to the Employer / HR by the Employee.
It should be actioned within the timescale offered by the employer (usually 5 days) if the opportunity to appeal has been offered.
Compliance
Compliance
This Flexible working rejection appeal letter template incorporates relevant UK laws and HR standards, including those listed below:
If your request for flexible working is denied, you don’t have a legal right to appeal the decision. However, many employers offer an appeal process as part of a fair and reasonable approach.
Appealing gives you the chance to:
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Explain any concerns you have about the decision
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Provide new information that may support your request
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Work with your employer to explore a solution that benefits both you and the business
If you decide to appeal, your employer must make a final decision within two months of your original request. This deadline can be extended if both you and your employer agree—any extension should be confirmed in writing, such as in an email or letter.
Flowchart
Flowchart
Check which resources should be implemeted before and/or after the Flexible working rejection appeal letter template, to understand the workflow.
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Our Flexible Working Request Rejection Letter Template ensures clear, fair communication of a declined request, outlining business reasons and offering next steps.
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Our Appeal Hearing Invitation Letter template formally invites employees to appeal hearings, maintaining transparency and adhering to procedural fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Flexible working rejection appeal letter template 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.
