Changes to The Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023
The Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023 is about to pass into law, with the final approval of Royal Assent scheduled for today (20th July 2023).
This means that the Bill has passed through the Commons and the Lords, and is only a step away from becoming legislature or an Act of Parliament.
Royal Assent, or approval of the King, has to be granted before the Bill can become an Act of Parliament. Royal Assent is almost certain as it hasn’t been withheld since 1708.
The Bill has changed a few things in the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act, which will make it easier to request flexible working (though your employer can still deny your request):
- As an employee you will now be allowed request flexible working twice in any 12 month period
- Any request you, as an employee makes has to be dealt with by your employer within two months of that request
- Your employer is not allowed to refuse a request until they have consulted with you
- As an employee you no longer have to explain why you would like flexible working
However, these aren’t Day 1 Rights as an employee - you will have had to have worked for your company for 26 weeks before you can request flexible working
You can read the full Bill here: https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3198
If you have any questions about the Bill or about employment issues, please give Kim Cross a call on 01945 898090 or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
