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Most staff are unaware of the right to request flexible working in their new job
https://www.whatjobs.com/news/united-kingdom/uk-employment-news/most-staff-are-unaware-of-the-right-to-request-flexible-working-in-their-new-job
By Nithya Bose in UK Employment news, posted December 16, 2023
Over two-thirds of employees are unaware they can request flexible working from day one of their job next year, a study finds.
Acas, the conciliation service, plans to introduce a new statutory code of practice to guide employers and workers in managing flexible working requests.
Currently, employees with 26 weeks of service have the right to request flexible working.
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However, a change in the law in the United Kingdom will extend this right to the first day of employment.
Acas chief executive Susan Clews said: “There has been a substantial shift in flexible working globally, which has allowed more people to better balance their working lives and employers have also benefitted from being an attractive place to work.
“It is important for bosses and staff to be prepared for new changes to the law around the right to request flexible working, which will be coming into force next year.
“Acas has just consulted on a new draft code of practice, which strengthens good practice on flexible working and addresses important upcoming changes to the law.
“The final new code will be published next year.”
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The rule granting the day-one right to request flexible working would come into force in April 2024.
70 percent were unaware
Acas surveyed 1,000 workers, revealing that 70 percent of respondents were unaware of the new right.
Business and Trade Minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “A happier workforce means increased productivity, and that’s why we backed the Flexible Working Act to help give people across the country even more flexibility over where and when they work.
“From next spring, the new measures will help individuals fit work alongside other commitments – whether it’s the school drop off, studying or caring for vulnerable friends and family.”
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