The government has announced plans to extend the right to request flexible working to parents with children up to the age of 16. 

The flexible working regulations give employees the right to request changes to their working hours or location. The regulations currently apply to parents of children under the age of 6, or 18 if disabled, and also to carers of adults. Employers can refuse requests as long as they have a valid business reason. Details of the current regulations are available on the ACAS website.

The right to request flexible working will be extended to those with children up to the age of 16. The government will now consult on implementing the proposals.

The Department for Business Enterprise and Regularity Reform review of flexible working found that small businesses are more likely than larger businesses to accept flexible working requests.

Internet links: BERR report  Press release and ACAS flexible working guidance