Flexible Working
The ability to work flexibly can significantly ease your return to work for both you and your family and your employer.
The biggest benefit is likely to be in childcare provision, particularly if both parents are working, more so if you are a single parent.
How to apply for flexible working
Firstly find out what sort of flexible working you want.
- part time - which is working fixed hours over a shorter week
- flexible - working fixed hours but with agreed flexiblity
- working from home - either full time or split between office and home
- term time working - working full time through school terms
- job share - sharing a job with a colleague
- compressed hours - same hours over fewer days
- annualised - agreed hours to work through the year but to do when you want
Remember, you do not have a legal right to be granted flexible working but you do have a right to request it.
Your first move should be to talk to your employers HR department and obtain their flexible working procedure. If you follow their procedure at least you can't fall down on a formality...
- Speak to colleagues who are already working flexibly to find out their experience.
- Speak to your union representative if you have one - they should have useful advice specific to your workplace.
- Make the request in writing - see "How to Make a Strong Case" below.
- You employer should meet with you within 28 days to discuss the proposal and how it might work.
- Your employer should give you a response within 14 days, either accepting your request or giving business grounds why your proposal cannot be accepted.
- If you disagree with this you need to make an appeal within 14 days of being notified of the decision.
- Final appeal may go to a third party such as ACAS or an employment tribunal.
How To Make a Strong Case
- Firstly do your research, there is likely to be benefits to both parties.
- Think about what possible objections there could be? Who will cover your position until you want to come into work or after you go home?
- How can these objections be overcome? Try to find a solution.
- Would the change place an undue burden on your colleagues? Your request may reduce leave or flexi-time opportunities for them...
- How can you be sure it won't affect the companies profitability. You're a team leader, how would you ensure that your team are working to their full capacity?
- Higher staff retention
- Continuing return on their investment in you
- Reduction of absentism, sickness, stress
- Increased productivity and performance
- Increased morale, committment and loyality
www.direct.gov.uk/en/employment/employees