Our recommendations to make flexible working more accessible, but still manageable for businesses.
03 Dec 2021, 3 min read
The government recently published a consultation to reform flexible working regulations. The CBI has submitted a formal response, on behalf of our members.
Businesses support a ‘right to request’ legislative framework, that makes flexible working accessible to all employees, along with a more responsive system that remains manageable for employers. Firms see constructive conversations with employees as the objective to make flexible working sustainable for both parties, and businesses want more practical guidance to support this.
Summary of our recommendations:
- Remove the 26-week qualifying period, so employees are eligible to request flexible working from day one of employment.
- Retain the eight grounds to refuse a request, so employers can ensure that flexible working arrangements are sustainable for both parties
- Do not legally require businesses to suggest an alternative arrangement, or provide a formal evaluation of considered alternatives, if flexible working requests are refused
- Enable employees to make two requests for flexible work within a 12-month period, with a si
Exclusive member-only content 
