Flexible working rights (disabled child)

[meanieleanie]

I've been working part-time for a short while as was struggling with managing caring for my child alongside full time work. My employers have now said I need to go back to full time hours.

When I originally asked to go part time, it was by way of an email from me to then suggesting it. They then replied with a letter approving it on a temporary basis.

Does anyone know if this originally request counts as a formal flexible working request? I know you can only submit one per year.

I want to submit a request to change my hours permanently but I know it will be automatically rejected if my previous request counts as a formal one.

Do I have any extra rights/strength in my application given my child is disabled? My child gets low rate mobility and middle rate care DLA.