Who is eligible to make a statutory flexible working request?

The statutory right to request flexible working applies only to employees in Great Britain. Self-employed contractors and workers do not have this specific statutory right. Additionally, you cannot make a new statutory request if you have already made two such requests in the previous 12 months.

Can I make a flexible working request verbally?

A verbal request is not sufficient to trigger the statutory process. You must confirm your request in writing. The request must clearly specify the proposed change, such as reducing hours from 40 to 32 per week, rather than using vague language like 'I'd like to work less'.

What information must I include in my written request?

Your written request should clearly state your current working pattern and the specific proposed change, including the desired start date. It is recommended to include a reason for the change and a section detailing the anticipated effects on the employer and how those effects could be managed.

Do I need to explain how my request affects the business?

Yes, the request should state any anticipated effect of the change on the employer and how it could be dealt with. This demonstrates that you have considered the business impact and helps the employer assess the request reasonably under the statutory framework.

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Employment

Employment Law

Updated 2026-05-21

Flexible Working Request (ERA 2025 reasonableness test)

Statutory flexible working request to your employer under s.80F ERA 1996, as amended by the Employment Rights Act 2025.

This template was not drafted by a solicitor.

It is an editorial reference based on the official sources we cite. You are responsible for any document you send. For high-stakes matters (court proceedings, large sums, deportation, criminal allegations, child welfare), have a regulated solicitor review or draft your document.

When to use this template

When you want to request a change to your working pattern (hours, location, days). Available from day one of employment in Great Britain.

When NOT to use this template

If you are a self-employed contractor or worker (the statutory right is for employees only); if you've already made 2 statutory requests in the last 12 months.

Legal Basis

Employment Rights Act 1996 s.80F, as amended by the Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations 2023 and the Employment Rights Act 2025.

Before you send

Not specifying the proposed change clearly (e.g. saying 'I'd like to work less' instead of 'I would like to reduce my hours from 40 to 32 per week, working Monday to Thursday')
Not stating any anticipated effect of the change on the employer and how it could be dealt with
Failing to confirm in writing — a verbal request does not count

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✗Not specifying the proposed change clearly (e.g. saying 'I'd like to work less' instead of 'I would like to reduce my hours from 40 to 32 per week, working Monday to Thursday')
✗Not stating any anticipated effect of the change on the employer and how it could be dealt with
✗Failing to confirm in writing — a verbal request does not count

Build Your Letter

Fill in your details

Complete the fields below. Required fields are marked with *.

Date of request*

Employer name*

Manager's name*

Your start date with the employer*

Your job title*

Current working pattern*

Proposed new working pattern*

Date you'd like the change to start*

Reason (optional)*

Anticipated effects on the business and how to address them*

Your name*

Letter preview

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Telephone] [Email]

[EMPLOYER NAME]
[Employer Address]

Date: [DATE OF REQUEST]

Dear [MANAGER'S NAME],

Statutory Flexible Working Request

I am making a statutory request for flexible working under section 80F of the Employment Rights Act 1996.

1. My current arrangement

I have worked for [EMPLOYER NAME] since [YOUR START DATE WITH THE EMPLOYER] in the role of [YOUR JOB TITLE]. My current working pattern is [CURRENT WORKING PATTERN].

2. Proposed change

I would like to change to the following pattern: [PROPOSED NEW WORKING PATTERN].

I would like this change to take effect from [DATE YOU'D LIKE THE CHANGE TO START].

3. Reason

[Optional but recommended: [REASON (OPTIONAL)]]

4. Anticipated effect on the employer and how it could be dealt with

I anticipate the following potential effects on the business and have considered how each could be addressed:

[ANTICIPATED EFFECTS ON THE BUSINESS AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM]

5. Statutory framework

Under s.80G of the Employment Rights Act 1996 you must consider this request in a reasonable manner and notify me of your decision within 2 months of today's date (unless we agree an extension). Under the Employment Rights Act 2025, refusal must be reasonable in light of one or more of the prescribed business grounds.

6. Discussion

I am happy to discuss this request at a meeting and to consider any alternative proposals you may wish to make, including a trial period.

Please confirm receipt of this request and the timetable for considering it.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]

Unfilled fields appear as [FIELD NAME]. Review the letter carefully before sending. This template is a starting point — adapt it to your specific circumstances.

Related Guides

Flexible Working Default Rules

Official Resources

ACAS — flexible working →Section 80F ERA 1996 →

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to make a statutory flexible working request?: The statutory right to request flexible working applies only to employees in Great Britain. Self-employed contractors and workers do not have this specific statutory right. Additionally, you cannot make a new statutory request if you have already made two such requests in the previous 12 months.
Can I make a flexible working request verbally?: A verbal request is not sufficient to trigger the statutory process. You must confirm your request in writing. The request must clearly specify the proposed change, such as reducing hours from 40 to 32 per week, rather than using vague language like 'I'd like to work less'.
What information must I include in my written request?: Your written request should clearly state your current working pattern and the specific proposed change, including the desired start date. It is recommended to include a reason for the change and a section detailing the anticipated effects on the employer and how those effects could be managed.
Do I need to explain how my request affects the business?: Yes, the request should state any anticipated effect of the change on the employer and how it could be dealt with. This demonstrates that you have considered the business impact and helps the employer assess the request reasonably under the statutory framework.