Make Work Pay: improving access to flexible working

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This consultation sought views on a proposed new process for employers to follow where a flexible working request cannot be immediately agreed. It also sought views on what training resources and support can help businesses navigate flexible working requests, as well as other ways to improve access to flexible working.

The consultation received over 1,000 responses from:

The changes as set out in the consultation aim to support greater access to flexible working while ensuring employers can continue to manage their businesses effectively. They also aim to encourage constructive dialogue between employers and employees, contributing to a more inclusive and productive labour market.

The government response summarises the evidence received through the consultation and sets out the government’s decisions and next steps for implementation of reforms to the flexible working framework.

We are seeking views on a new process for employers to follow when handling flexible working requests, as well as insights on flexible working practices more broadly.

This consultation ran from
11:45am on 5 February 2026 to 11:59pm on 30 April 2026

Through the Employment Rights Act we are introducing a new process for employers to follow if they think they might need to reject a flexible working request.

We are running this consultation to make sure this new process meets the needs of both employers and employees.

Anyone can respond to this consultation, and we particularly welcome views from those with insight into this topic and those with experience making or handling flexible working requests.