'Expectation for many' | Flexible working still matters to majority of workers, Acas finds

Flexible working remains a priority for nearly eight in 10 employees, according to new Acas research published as the conciliation service seeks views on how employers should handle requests under forthcoming legal changes.

The YouGov poll for Acas found that 78% of employees considered flexible working important in a job, compared with 20% who said it was not important.

Acas today (1 October) launched a consultation on revisions to its Code of Practice on requests for flexible working. The changes are intended to reflect the Employment Rights Act 2025 and help employers and employees reach decisions through constructive discussions.

Baroness Maggie Jones, chair of Acas, said: “Our poll reveals that flexible working continues to be a popular requirement for employees in a job. When it works well, it can benefit employers, staff and the wider economy.