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- Jo Faragher
More than half of UK businesses are unaware of the forthcoming changes to flexible working rights, according to online career portal Jobsite.
The company’s research found that 53% of businesses were oblivious to the legislative changes, which extend the right to request flexible working to all employees, regardless of whether they care for any dependents.
As we reported last week, employers and recruiters should review and update their flexible working policies in preparation for the extension of these rights.
Of those that are aware, according to Jobsite, a quarter admit that they had not thought about the impact the changes could have on their business. The legislation is due to come into force at the end of this month and anyone who has worked for their employer for more than 26 weeks will qualify.
Employees themselves are even more unaware, with 77% pleading ignorance to their new rights. That said, 35% cited flexible working as the most important attribute in an employer, while two-thirds said they would request flexible working if given the opportunity to do so. Many felt they would be more productive working hours that suited them.
Employers have concerns over being understaffed due to flexible working, however, and almost a quarter said they might not be able to fulfill all employees’ requests.
Jobsite’s employment lawyer, Philip Landau said: “Impacts should not be underestimated and we urge companies to use the next month to get prepared, or be prepared to be caught out.”
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