Third of flexible working requests denied


One in three flexible working requests are turned down, according to a TUC survey which shows that people in working class jobs are most likely to miss out on flexible working arrangements.


The poll, published in September, found that flexi-time is unavailable to over half (58%) of the UK workforce. This rises to nearly two-thirds (64%) for people in working class occupations. 


Meanwhile, almost three in 10 workers (28%) say their desire for more flexible hours is one of the main reasons they might look for a new job. 


The TUC has joined the Flex for All alliance which is campaigning for workers’ legal right to flexible working from day one in a job, with employers required to advertise all jobs on that basis. Flex for All has launched a petition calling for the change.


TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Flexible working should be a day one right that’s available to everyone. But under current law bosses have free rein to turn down requests. It’s not right that millions are struggling to balance their work and home lives.” 


She called on ministers to change the law so that people can work flexibly regardless of what type of contract they are on. 

https://www.tuc.org.uk/blogs/everyone-deserves-right-work-flexibly-its-time-flex-all