Changes to flexible working will benefit 4.5 million

Some 4.5 million parents will gain the right to request flexible working when new legislation comes into force next week, according to Government estimations.

On 6 April the right to request flexible working will be extended to parents of children up to the age of 16. Currently only parents with children under six years of age can request flexible hours from their employer.

However the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform estimates that 10 million parents will have the right when the new rules come into effect next month.

Pat McFadden, minister for employment relations, said: ‘This is about balancing work and family life. Extending the right to request will help more parents get the flexibility they need.

‘The business benefits of flexible working are well documented and this remains the case in tougher economic times.’

In the run-up to 6 April the Government is contacting businesses to make sure they know where to find free help and advice.

For more information on the new rules, visit: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/Flexibleworking/index.htm