Employers' confused over flexible working legislation

Employers are confused about legislation regarding flexible working. This is especially relevant over the summer period, while many employees are away on holiday or spending time with their families. Workplace Law has published guidance on the flexible working laws, and the advantages and disadvantages of such an approach.

[UKPRwire, Thu Aug 30 2007] Flexible working patterns are becoming more and more prevalent in business. For employees with a family, both parents are often working. Employees are turning away from the traditional nine to five, and looking for more flexible ways of tallying their work-life balance. Businesses also increasingly need to implement flexible working patterns to respond to today's consumer society that wants everything on tap 24/7 Workplace Law has published guidance on the flexible working laws, and the advantages and disadvantages of such an approach.

The Employment Act 2003 allowed employees the formal right to request flexible working, to help them care for children and dependents. This right was extended in April 2007 to cover employees who are carers of adults, meaning that all employers have to follow a statutory process when deciding whether their employees are able to work flexibly.

The Guide to Flexible Working 2008 explains the many different forms of flexible working, and their advantages and disadvantages for employers. Written by Graham Paul, a partner at Dundas & Wilson, the guide is essential reading for anyone with responsibility for human resources, in companies both large and small. The guide is available to be downloaded now, from:

http://www.workplacelaw.net/eshop/product_info.php?product_id=604

Notes to editors

1. The Workplace Law Network is the fastest growing legal support service in the country. Some of the UK's biggest employers, including KPMG, Tesco, the BBC and Powergen turn to us for expert advice on the law of the workplace and how it affects them.

The Workplace Law Network provides legal support to over 50,000 employers and managers. They know the law does affect them, in all areas of their business. From personnel and employment issues to health and safety and premises management, it's vital to know where you stand.

2. Workplace Law Training, Second Floor Daedalus House, Station Road, Cambridge CB1 2RE, 0870 777 8881, www.workplacelaw.net