Flexible Working Requests in the Era of Hybrid Working - Getting Them Right

Introduction

The emergent world of hybrid working has triggered a substantial increase in flexible working requests.

The introduction of the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023 does not go as far as the Government’s original intention to make flexible working the default; however, the changes still have the potential to significantly impact requests and how they are handled. In particular:

• The right to request flexible working will become a day one right (workers will no longer need any service requirement to make a request)
• Employers will have two months to respond (rather than three months) and must consult with employees before reaching a decision
• Employees will be able to make two flexible working requests in any 12-month period
• Employees will no longer have to explain the impact of their request

Alongside this, Acas has recently published a revised Code of Practice.

Importantly, in addition to the procedural requirements under the Employment Rights Act, there is a very significant risk of discrimination claims where flexible working requests are mishandled.

This new virtual classroom seminar will consider the practical implications of flexible working requests in the context of a hybrid workforce. The session will help you ensure that requests are appropriately understood and considered.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive session will cover the following:

• The impact of hybrid working
• Likely further changes on the horizon
• The key lessons arising from recent decisions
• The statutory framework that employees must follow when making flexible working requests, and which employers must abide by when responding
• High-risk situations and in particular cases which involve potential indirect discrimination
• The information and knowhow you need to carefully navigate these types of requests

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.