Flexible working code

Conciliation service Acas has launched a consultation on a draft code of practice to extend the right to request flexible working to all employees.

Under government proposals, the right to request flexible working will be available to employees with 26 weeks’ service or more, and employers will be obliged to consider all requests “in a reasonable manner”.

Acas is seeking views from employees and employers, particularly from small businesses.

Ed Sweeney, chair of Acas, said: “We’re very keen to hear views on the draft code from anyone who has an interest in flexible working.”

Acas will also produce a good practice guide with practical examples of managing flexible working requests. This will be published alongside the final code of practice.