Flexible working countdown: 5 – What are the timescales for dealing with requests?

We continue our look at the new rules and changes to the procedure for dealing with flexible working applications by examining the timescale for dealing with requests.

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Requests to work flexibly must be dealt with within a three-month period starting with the date of the application and ending with the final decision. However, the employer and the employee can agree to extend this period.

For example, an employee submits a request to work part time on 1 July. The employer must consider and decide on the request, including any appeal, before 1 October. The employer has asked the employee if it can have more time to reach its decision because of staff absences. The employee agrees and it is confirmed that the deadline for completing the process will be 1 November rather than 1 October.