Flexible Working Regulations – SME’s unaware of changes

Over 10% of small businesses are still unaware of the new flexible working regulations which were extended at the end of June 2014. 

The new regulations were introduced to strengthen the statutory right to request flexible working. However a report from Sage UK who have conducted research into the awareness of companies about flexible working, shows that there is a considerable lack of knowledge and understanding in respect of these changes.

The extension of employees rights under the flexible working regulations now allows all employees with 26 weeks continuous service and who have not made another request within the previous 12 months to apply. Before the extension of the regulations it was only available to parents with children under 17 (or 18 if disabled) or those who cared for adults.

It appears however that employers are taking a more sceptical view of applications from employees now applying and who previously were not eligible to apply. Every request for flexible working must be considered and dealt with in a reasonable manner to minimise the risk of claims arising.

For more information on the impact of the new changes click here.

For detailed information on the Flexible Working Regulations visit the Gov UK website