Flexible work from first day in job

Millions of workers will be able to request flexible working from day one of their employment, under new UK government plans.

Ministers have spelled out a range of flexible working options, including job-sharing, flexitime, and working compressed, annualised, or staggered hours.

Flexible working has been found to help employees to balance their work and home life, in particular supporting those who also have commitmentsorresponsibilitiessuch as caring for children or vulnerable people, the government said.

If an employer cannot accommodate a request to work flexibly, they will be required to discuss alternative options before they can reject the request.

Small business minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “Giving staff more say over their working pattern makes for happier employees and more productive businesses. Put simply, it’s a no-brainer.”