The UK government has taken a large step in adapting to the future of work by introducing a new proposal that will provide workers the ability to request flexible working arrangements.
If passed, the proposal would allow UK workers to ask for flexible working arrangements on their first day of work, as opposed to workers currently having to be in their position for at least six months before requesting.
An employer who denies this arrangement will have to provide a concrete explanation as to why.
Although this proposal is geared towards anyone, it mainly has women, those with disabilities, parents, and caretakers in mind.
Previously, data showed that over 30% of flexible working requests were turned down. Even more, many people did not even submit a request due to fear of rejection or being viewed as not taking their role seriously.
“Labour will give workers the right to flexible working—not just the right to request it—and give all workers full rights from day one on the job,” said Angela Rayner, deputy leader of the Labour Party. “The ‘new normal’ after this pandemic must mean a new deal for all working people based on flexibility, security and strengthened rights at work.”
