A recent YouGov poll has revealed that less than 10% of employees work the traditional 9-5. Another survey found that employees rate flexible working as a key factor in determing their overall satisfaction with their job.

It is likely that the decline in traditional hours is due to a desire for a better work/life balance.

Employers can be reluctant to agree to flexible working out of fear that it may impact productivity. However it is worth bearing in mind that happy employees (working hours that suit their lifestyle) are often more productive and loyal.

Employees with 26 weeks’ continuous service have a statutory entitlement to make a flexible working request which an employer can only refuse on the basis of eight specified grounds.

If you require advice on flexible working or employment law more generally, please contact Eve Lakin on 01270 619689 or via eve.lakin@poolealcock.co.uk