Flexible Working

Whether you're looking for part-time hours, hybrid working, or something more tailored, flexible working is your right from day one in a job. You can make up to two statutory requests a year. It just needs to be in writing. Your employer must consult with you and give you a decision within two months. They can only say no for specific business reasons set out in law. We’ll help you request the setup you need and make sure your rights are respected.

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For individuals

Flexible Working

Drafting your statutory request

Clear, compelling applications that match your role and reflect your business case. To help maximise approval prospects and compliance with the latest flexible working rules.

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Informal routes and bespoke negotiation

Planning of informal approaches, negotiate trial periods or hybrid models with HR and managers, and document workable, future‑proof arrangements.

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Refusals, appeals, and discrimination

We analyse your employer’s refusal response, flag discrimination or procedural flaws, and guide you through the next steps if you’ve been treated unfairly.

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Support in consultations and grievances

We can prep you for meetings and consultations, help you raise concerns professionally, and put your case in writing.

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ACAS Early Conciliation and Tribunal Claims

We manage ACAS notifications, negotiate settlements, and act fast to issue Tribunal claims when needed.

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Exit packages and Settlement Agreements

If things end, we make sure your exit package reflects your rights, protects your future, and secure tax‑efficient settlement terms that reflect your claims.

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Questions we’re often asked

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Who can request flexible working?

Any employee in the UK can make a request from their first day in a role, regardless of length of service.

How many requests can I make?

You’re allowed up to two formal (statutory) requests in any 12-month period.

How quickly does my employer need to reply?

They have two months to give you a decision, unless you both agree a longer deadline.

What should I include in my request?

You must submit a written request that explains the change you want and when you want it to start.

Does my employer need a good reason to refuse?

Yes. They can only refuse for specific business reasons set out in law, like cost or impact on performance.

What if my employer mishandles the process?

We can help you challenge poor processes, escalate through ACAS, or take your claim to a Tribunal if needed.

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

Georgia was incredibly helpful throughout the process of reaching a settlement with a previous employer. Georgia took the time to understand my personal situation and provided clear, considerate, and professional guidance at every stage. Her support made a complex process much easier to navigate, and I felt reassured knowing I was in capable hands.

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

Chris is a great listener, clear communicator and, in my opinion, a genuinely good, kind human being. I have no hesitation in recommending Blacks in Leeds for any legal matters you may have; you'll be in good hands.

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

I have dealt with Chris Allen recently concerning some rather upsetting and extremely delicate matters. Chris and the team have proved to be reassuring, down to earth and absolute consummate professionals.

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

Blacks helped us think beyond the sessions by supporting us to consider how the legislative changes translate into day to day behaviours and what this means for our culture in anticipation for our policy to be launched. This has supported follow on training delivery internally surrounding misogyny, misogynoir and trans-misogyny.

Employment Training Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

We had an excellent experience working with Blacks. From the moment we reached out to request training, they responded quickly and took the time to meet with us early on to understand our needs and the wider organisational context. They were patient and flexible as we worked through our planning.

Employment Training Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

Ellie was absolutely amazing through the whole process. She made me feel at ease and was very efficient at replying to my emails and queries. I would also like to say a thank you to Jemma who was the first one I engaged with and made me feel comfortable and less anxious.

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

I worked with Tom during a very stressful and time-sensitive settlement, and I’m genuinely so grateful for his support. From the start, he was calm, practical and incredibly thorough, which made a huge difference at a point when everything felt overwhelming.

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

The service was 11 out of 10! Ellie kept me on the straight and narrow. She navigated the legal side and the emotional side incredibly well. She advised me brilliantly and I couldn’t be happier with that

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

Euan Lawrence helped me with a HR issue with a former employee, and I was extremely impressed by his professionalism and the clarity of his advice in translating complex legal ease for the less legally minded individuals such as myself – I would fully recommend.

Employment Client

Trusted by organisations, families and professionals across the UK

Outstanding service from start to finish. The team’s work rate, speed of response, and legal knowledge were second to none. They consistently went above and beyond to get things done efficiently and with care. Special thanks to Richard P and Pete K for their exceptional support – true professionals!

Blacks Client

Experts in every area

Managing Partner

Ellie Broadhurst

Associate Solicitor

Jemma Fieldsend

Georgia Jeonney

Partner and Head of Employment

Graduate Solicitor Apprentice

Partner and Head of Employment

Marcus Pickersgill

Anna Schiavetta

Senior Associate Solicitor

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