Acas consulting on predictable working pattern requests code

Acas has launched a consultation on its draft code of practice on handling requests for a predictable working pattern, ahead of legislation due to take effect in 2024.

The Acas draft statutory code sets out how employers should handle requests for more stable working patterns or hours, including the practical factors they should consider, how they should communicate their decision, and how any appeals should be handled.

Last month the Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions Act 2023) received Royal Assent, and will give all workers on zero-hours or temporary contracts the right to make a formal request for a more stable working pattern. It is expected to be enacted in Autumn 2024.

Acas’s draft code of practice aims to ensure that employers handle requests in a reasonable manner, so that the worker’s position is fully understood and considered.

It sets out good practice on:

• Holding a meeting to discuss a request before making a decision
• Who should be allowed to accompany a worker at meetings to discuss a request
• Accepting a request where possible
• Only rejecting a request for certain legally allowed reasons and being clear about the reasons for rejecting it
• Offering an appeal where a request has been rejected.

A consultation seeking feedback on the code will run until 17 January 2024.

Acas chief executive Susan Clews said: “Acas’s purpose is to make working life better for everyone in Britain. Our new draft code will help businesses and workers understand the new law and provide good practice around requesting and handling requests for a predictable working pattern.

“Our Code outlines the steps that need to be taken to ensure that requests are handled in a reasonable manner. This includes weighing up the potential benefits and other impacts of the requested change for both sides.

“We are eager for feedback on the draft code to ensure it is clear and workable for everyone that will impacted by the new law next year.”

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