Flexible working request

[KnackeredCow]

I submitted a flexible working request on 21 June.

On 26 June we met to discuss it (within 28 days of my application).

On Thursday (4 July) I received the minutes of the meeting, but no decision.

I understand that I ought to be given a decision within 14 days. That technically expires tomorrow at 10.30am. I have heard nothing, and have not received to a request to agree to an extension.

One of my colleagues (and direct reports) has appealed her flexible working request refusal. I am currently on maternity leave and so it was dealt with in my absence by my manager. I suspect he may be dragging his feet to wait for the appeal outcome before making a decision about me.

What do I do if I don't hear?

TIA

Have you rung your manager yet to remind him of the deadline and ask when you can expect a decision?

I emailed him today, but haven't had a response, yet.

He has replied now. He states that he did not know he needed to respond within 14 days. He thought it was 28. I'm rather sceptical about this.

He has asked for an extension until close of business tomorrow.

What I didn't mention further up thread is that I initially made my request (in writing) on 30 May, but I was asked to resubmit it on a specific form.

So my manager has known about my request for quite some time, giving him plenty of time to consider it.

I guess my concern is that I'm now being forced to give him an extension, by which time he'll know the outcome of my colleague's appeal. I'd prefer for him to make a decision that isn't unduly influenced.

I would strongly suggest not refusing a request for a tiny extension of a few hours. The only reason to do so would be to make some kind of point and it won't do you any favours.

The timescales for flexible working requests are complex and its entirely possible he may have thought 28 days applied here.

Even if he did know it was 14 days, if you kick up a fuss at the prospect of having to wait 14 days and 7 hours you're going to look very petty.