ACAS has updated its Code of Practice on Requests for Flexible Working. The new Code is currently in draft form pending parliamentary approval; however, if approved, it is expected to come into effect in April 2024.This ties in with upcoming changes to flexible working laws, which are dealt with in the new Code.
To recap, the key upcoming changes to the flexible working regime are as follows:
- Employees will be able to make a flexible working request from “day one” of their employment (and not after 26 weeks’ continuous employment).
- Employees will be able to make two flexible working requests in any 12 month period (instead of one request).
- Employees will no longer have to explain what effect the requested change would have on the employer and how that effect might be dealt with.
- Employers will need to consider and discuss any requests made by an employee, and must consult with the employee before refusing their request.
- Employers will have to deal with requests within two months of receipt (instead of within three months).
The draft ACAS Code of Practice deals with these changes and sets out how flexible working requests should be made and dealt with from April 2024.
Graham Irons comments: “The draft ACAS Code of Practice will help guide employers and employees alike. Employers should familiarise themselves with the draft Code, as it will help them deal with flexible working requests appropriately under the new laws. They can also prepare for the upcoming changes by reviewing and updating their flexible working policies in readiness of April 2024.”
If you have any questions about the upcoming changes to flexible working requests, or would like assistance with reviewing and updating your flexible working policy, please contact a member of the team here.
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