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Employment & HR

Flexible Working Policy Template

Flexible working is now a day-one right, and employees can make requests from the start of employment. A clear policy helps you handle requests fairly and within the statutory framework.

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What this flexible working policy covers

When you need a flexible working policy

2026 update. Flexible working is a day-one right, with employers required to respond within two months and consult before refusing.

The legal framework

Understanding the law behind a flexible working policy helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:

Employment Rights Act 1996
The foundation of UK employment law — sets out the core rights around contracts, dismissal, redundancy and the written statement of particulars.
Employment Rights Act 2025
The most significant reform in a generation. Introduced day-one rights to statutory sick pay and certain family leave, strengthened protections for low-hours workers, and created the Fair Work Agency. Being phased in through 2026–2027.
Equality Act 2010
Prohibits discrimination in the workplace across nine protected characteristics — relevant to every policy and contract.
On the horizon. Further Employment Rights Act 2025 provisions continue to commence through 2026 and 2027, including an expected reduction in the unfair dismissal qualifying period from two years to around six months.

Frequently asked questions

Is flexible working a day-one right?

Yes. Employees can request flexible working from their first day, and employers must handle requests reasonably and within the statutory timeframe.

How many requests can an employee make?

Employees can now make more than one statutory request in a 12-month period under the updated rules.

How Legal Lift helps

Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored flexible working policy, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.

This page explains the law in general terms to help you understand your flexible working policy. It is information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are here to help.

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