Is flexible work working for everyone?

A poll published by the TUC (Trades Union Congress) this week has revealed that 30% of flexible working requests are turned down by employers and that those in ‘working-class’ jobs are least likely to have requests approved.

Some notable statistics from the survey include that more than half of workers (58%) do not have access to flexible working time and this figure rises to 64% for working-class occupations. Flexible hours were cited by 3 in 10 workers as one of the main reasons they may decide to look for a new job.

The survey comes as campaign groups appeal to the government to require that employers offer the right to flexible working from day one of employment and to publish flexible working options in all job adverts.

Although the government has not yet announced any plans to change the current rules around flexible working options, in July of this year Conservative MP Helen Whately introduced the flexible working bill to Parliament. If passed, the bill would ‘require employers to offer flexible working in employment contracts and to advertise vacancies as suitable for flexible working unless certain conditions are met; and for connected purposes’.

Ms Whately argued that the current way of working “no longer reflects the reality of how many modern families want to live their lives”. The date for the second hearing of the bill has not yet been announced.

Mincoffs Solicitors’ Employment department can advise individuals on their rights to flexible working including appealing rejections and representation at Employment Tribunal. The team is also able to help employers implement or review flexible working policies and procedures. To speak to a member of our Employment team call 0191 281 6151 or email Nick Smith, Head of Employment at nsmith@mincoffs.co.uk