Employees who are considering making a request for flexible working should be encouraged to talk to their line manager informally in the first instance. That will provide the opportunity to think through some of the implications; consider what the possible benefits are; if there are disadvantages how they could be overcome, or what might outweigh them. It may be apparent at this stage that further information is needed before a request could be considered.
The flexible working procedure requires employees to submit their formal request using a flexible working request form at least 12 weeks before they want the new arrangements to start. However where the personal circumstances of an employee change suddenly (e.g. due to bereavement or disability of a relative or carer) that timescale may not be possible and managers should do their best to respond sympathetically.
On receiving a request managers must acknowledge receipt of the form within seven days.
