What is flexible working?
In this article, we will explore the different types of flexible working and will also examine your rights as an employee and how to go about negotiating a flexible working agreement with your employer.
Flexible working is an arrangement that allows employees to have control over the hours they work. It can involve changes to the times and days worked, as well as location and length of shifts.
Flexible working aims to provide a better work-life balance for employees while allowing them to continue doing their job effectively.
There are many different types of flexible working available. Each type of flexible working has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that must be considered before deciding which option is best for the employee.
Job sharing
Job sharing is when two or more employees work part-time hours over the same position, each taking responsibility for different tasks within the job.
Working from home
Working from home allows employees to work remotely, either in full or part-time. Some roles may involve working fully remotely, whilst others combine working in the office with working from home. This is known as 'hybrid' working.
Part time
Part time working involves reducing a full-time position to one that is worked fewer hours over the course of the week, usually between one to four days.
Compressed hours
Compressed hours is when full-time workers work the same amount of hours over fewer days. For example, working 36 hours over four days instead of five.
Flexitime
Flexitime is when an employee's start and finish times can vary within certain parameters. This allows them to adjust their hours around other commitments, subject to the requirements of the job.
Annualised hours
Annualised hours involve staff working a set number of hours over a year, rather than following fixed patterns of days and times each week. Employees usually have set "core hours" that they work regularly each week, with the remaining hours being flexible or required when there is an increase in demand at the workplace.
Staggered hours
Staggered hours involve staff working staggered start times, allowing them to spread out their arrival and departure times. This can help with traffic congestion and rush-hour problems for organisations.
Phased retirement
Phased retirement allows an employee to work fewer hours as they approach retirement age and gradually transition into retirement.
Can I ask for flexible working hours?
If you have worked for the same employer uninterruptedly over 26 weeks, then you are eligible to submit a 'statutory application' and take advantage of flexible working.
You must put your application in writing. It's a good idea to explain why you are making the application and how this would benefit all parties. Taking this approach will show the employer that you have given the idea of working flexible hours serious thought.
Please bear in mind that you are only allowed to make one application each year.
There are a few things you must include in your letter (or email):
- The date
- That this application is a 'statutory request'
- Details of the proposed working arrangements and when you would like the new agreement to start
- If you've made a previous application, you must state this in the new application
- Some employers may have a specific form that they use for requests for flexible working, so it's worth checking with your line manager or HR before you start
Upon receipt of your written request your employer must:
- Consider your application in a reasonable manner
- Hold a meeting to discuss your request and why it would help you
- Consider the advantages and disadvantages of your request
- Give their decision in writing and explain their reasoning, whether they accept or reject your request
- Reach a resolution within 3 months or, if necessary, extend the deadline in agreement with you
You must notify your employer in writing if you decide to withdraw your application. Likewise, your employer can consider your application as withdrawn if you miss two meetings without good reason, for example, sickness. The employer would need to tell you this in writing.
If the employer doesn't handle your request in a reasonable manner, then you can take them to an employment tribunal.
What happens if the employer agrees to your request for flexible working?
Should the employer agree to your request, it is their responsibility to alter and update the particulars in your contract of employment.