Requesting Flexible Working (UK)

Since 2024, the right to request flexible working applies to almost every employee with 26 weeks' service — you no longer need to be a parent or carer. Employers must handle requests reasonably and respond in good time. This guide explains what to put in your request, the deadline, and the only grounds on which a refusal is lawful.

1. The statutory right

Under the Employment Rights Act 1996 (as amended), any employee with at least 26 weeks' continuous service can make a flexible working request. "Flexible working" covers hours, start/finish times, the days you work, and where you work (including working from home). You can make as many requests as you like, but back-to-back requests can be treated as one.

2. What to include in your request

• The statutory right you are exercising.
• The change you want (e.g. "work 9am–3pm", "hybrid 3 days office", "compressed 4-day week").
• How you propose it works and any effect on the team.
• How any impact could be dealt with.
• A request for a meeting to discuss it.

Keep it practical and focused on outcomes — show you have thought about the business, not just your own preference.

3. The 2-month deadline

The employer must respond within 2 months of your request (unless you both agree a longer period). They should meet you (or at least consult) before rejecting. A flat refusal with no discussion is weak and challengeable.

4. Grounds an employer can refuse on

A refusal is only lawful on specific statutory grounds:

• Extra cost to the business.
• Inability to reorganise work among existing staff.
• Inability to meet customer demand.
• A lack of work for the periods the employee proposes to work.
• Planned structural changes.
• The burden of the request would be detrimental to the business.

"It's not how we've always done it" is not a lawful ground. An inconsistent or unexplained refusal can support an employment tribunal claim.

5. If your request is refused

Raise a formal grievance first. If that fails, ACAS early conciliation and, ultimately, an employment tribunal are options. Our generator produces a tailored flexible working request letter from your facts in minutes — first document free.

6. Frequently asked questions

Who can request flexible working?

Any employee with at least 26 weeks' continuous service for the same employer. You no longer need to be a parent or carer.

How long does my employer have to respond?

Within 2 months of your request, unless you both agree a longer period.

On what grounds can a request be refused?

Only on specific statutory grounds: burden on the business, inability to reorganise work, planned structural change, extra cost, inability to meet customer demand, or a lack of work for the periods requested.