PRIME Cymru welcomes Gov changes to flexible working rights

PRIME Cymru welcomes the UK Government’s plans to make flexible working available to all workers from day one of employment. 

The new rules mean employers must explore all available options with their employee before rejecting a flexible working request. Employees will be allowed to make two flexible working requests per year and employers will have to respond to any requests within 2 months. 

Flexible working does not only mean working from home, but can take many forms such as job-sharing, flexitime, part-time or staggered hours.

PRIME Cymru believes flexibility can create a more diverse work environment. Flexible hours are often appealing to older workers, who are more likely to have caring responsibilities for grandchildren or elderly parents. 

PRIME Cymru’s Director of Operations, Hayley Ridge-Evans, said: “It’s wonderful the Government are recognising the necessity of flexible working. These changes work particularly well for older workers, who want or need to stay in or return to work, giving them more options to suit their lifestyle.  

“Businesses will also benefit as there will be less risk of losing the valuable skills and experience of the over 50s from the workforce.” 

UK Minister for Small Business, Kevin Hollinrake, said: “Giving staff more say over their working pattern makes for happier employees and more productive businesses. Put simply, it’s a no-brainer.”