Flexible work request denied

[Flex12]

Would you be annoyed if you had your flex working request denied (3 days a week) but someone else in the exact same role has recently been allowed to do this? I asked first, about a year ago and was refused. I continue to work full time. There is literally no difference between our jobs/roles/managers/purpose in the company or reason for asking (childcare). I work in sales if that makes a difference and have been in the job for over 15 years! I want to put in another request...aibu to think they cannot possibly refuse this time?

I realise that flex working is just a request, not a right. They are within their rights to say no of course. But this just seems so unfair!

Job shares are not allowed “due to cost to business” they’ve already said that

It’s rubbish (it also happened to me) but it’s on a case by case basis. You will find it difficult to get them to compare these 2 sets of different circumstances. You do not know what was on their form. You cannot re-apply this year I believe, only appeal.

You are only restricted to a request every 12 months if your application is formally considered under the right to request legislation.

Precedents won't count as circumstances are different each time a request is considered.

You should be clear in your request as to how any concerns can be tackled and if possible, offer to do a trial period.

Those who think it’s unfair (and I know it wasn’t you who said this, OP) did you ever stop to consider this individual may have other circumstances that are not known to the OP? Not everyone declares long term illness or disabilities to their colleagues but they are protected by the law and have more rights.

OP, I hear your frustration though. I’m lucky I work for an organisation that really is pro flexi working and nobody feels short changed by the system. See how you feel in your role and decide if it’s right for you in the long term.

flex have you given serious thought to finding a new employer, or is that just not possible? I moved from one that was fairly family unfriendly to a different firm shortly after I had my second DC and it made my life so, so much better.

Organisational culture is very hard to change and can vary a lot from firm to firm.