Many unaware of changes in flexible working norms: Survey

Seven out of ten employees are unaware of a change in the law that will make it easier for them to avail flexible working conditions, says a survey.

The amended law, which will come into force from April 6, will provide employees the right to apply for flexible work from the first day of employment.

Currently, employees who have worked for 26 weeks or more can opt for this facility.

Conciliation service Acas had conducted an online survey in January involving over 1,000 workers and found that 70 per cent were not aware of the upcoming changes in law pertaining to flexible working conditions.

Another online survey of 1,000 employers during in the same month found that 43 per cent had not heard about the law change.

Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, said it is important for employers and staff to be prepared for the new law.

Acas has prepared a new statutory code of practice that addresses the changes and sets out good practice on flexible working requests, she said.

Once the amended law comes into force, additional reforms to the law on flexible working that are outlined in the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023 will also come into force.