Flexible working hours request

[M1SSUNDERSTOOD]

Hi I have asked in an email to my line manager (who I never see as our days don't overlap) to reduce my hours 1 day a week to pick up my son from nursery. Manager asked relevant details re hours start and finish etc and how I would be applying. I said I suppose hours would have to be reduced as I cannot start earlier but could I only take half an hour for lunch thus saving a further reduction in hours. I also said I assumed if would have to be for a minimum of 1 year under flexible working request. My point is are all the above points applicable as I didn't receive any guidelines from Manager and she says it's all up to personnel now. I also wanted changes to take place in 3 weeks and believe it's 6 weeks they have to come to a decision! Anyone in the know?

[flowerybeanbag]

Have a read here and

here about the process, it might take longer than 3 weeks, that's not a lot of notice.

You will see that a flexible working request results in a permanent change to your terms and conditions, it's not for a year or temporary in any way unless you mutually agree a trial period which would often be 3 months or similar.

[M1SSUNDERSTOOD]

Thanks. What's the best way to apply for a temporary change as only need it in force for one year .

[flowerybeanbag]

Well it would really just be about asking your employer if they are happy with it being temporary, but you just need to be aware they could refuse.

If the request is for something very minor and doesn't require them to make significant changes themselves to cover your hours reduction,they might be more likely to be happy with a temporary change.

[M1SSUNDERSTOOD]

Thanks will keep this all in mind when I get the decision. On two weeks holiday so hopefully after that.

[asuwere]

As far as I remember, it is a permanent change to your terms and you cannot apply again under flexible working for at least 12months. So, technically, you could ask to revert to your old post in a year if it's suitable but they don't have to say yes.

If it helps, when I applied for my change, it took less than 2 weeks to be fully approved so it can be done quicker, depending on employer. (I work for government so was very shocked they were quick! )

[flowerybeanbag]

Asuwere the OP would be able to make another request in a year's time, but not to revert to her previous hours. Flexible working requests must be for the purpose of caring for a child, and an increase in hours wouldn't be for that purpose.

Nothing stopping her asking the question of course, but she wouldn't have the right to request that under the flexible working legislation.