We highlighted to our subscribers in a legal development alert last month, that the right to request flexible working has been extended to all employees with at least 26 weeks' continuous service from 30 June 2014 and that to assist employers with handling flexible working requests, Acas produced a new code of practice. When the alert was sent out the code was in draft form, and on 30 June the final version was published: ‘Code of Practice – Handling in a reasonable manner requests to work flexibly’. The final version contains no major changes from the draft and is accompanied by ‘The right to request flexible working: an Acas guide’. As we advised in the alert, employers should review their flexible working policy and procedures to ensure the contents of both documents are incorporated, particularly as the Code will be taken into account by employment tribunals when considering relevant cases.

Content Note

The aim is to provide summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. In particular, where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out full details of all the facts, the legal arguments presented by the parties and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links provided to access full details. If no link is provided contact us for further information. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.