If you’ve been re-evaluating how, when and where you want to work, it helps to first understand exactly what flexible working is and how you can put together a solid business case to request it from your employer.

Member tool: CIPD Buddy AI AI
Use AI to find trusted answers on our Knowledge hub. Start using CIPD Buddy AI
The Employment Rights Act 2025 (ERA 2025) will make flexible working a default day one right (apart from when it is not reasonably feasible). This change is not expected to take effect until 2027. Keep up to date with the latest on these changes with our Tracker of potential law changes.
 
This page outlines the current legislation that should still be followed until any changes come into force. We will update this page once any changes are enforced.

On this page

To continue reading, log in or become a member

Affiliate membership offers instant access to CIPD resources without the need for assessments or study, or explore your options to become a professional member of the CIPD to demonstrate your commitment to the world of work.

  • Access to exclusive, up-to-date resources
  • Become part of a community to learn, debate and connect with other people professionals
  • Free access to a series of CIPD learning courses and a discount on the rest of our catalogue
Instant access Explore membership
  • Report

    Working Lives Scotland

    Dedicated analysis of job quality and its impact on organisations and working lives in Scotland

  • Data

    Health and wellbeing

    Compare your health and wellbeing practices with the latest trends, drawn from CIPD 2026 research data.

  • Data

    Work life balance

    Benchmark your employees' perceptions of work life balance against 2026 CIPD research data

    • All guides