MP proposes mandatory flexible working bill

‘Times are changing’

Adam Saville
clock • 1 min read

MP Helen Whately said plans would improve gender pay gap, shared parental leave and staff retention

A bill which would require employers to offer flexible working in employment contracts was introduced to parliament this week (16 July). The Flexible Working Bill would require UK businesses to advertise vacancies as suitable for flexible working unless certain conditions are met. Currently employees can apply for flexible working if they've worked continuously for the same employer for 26 weeks, however this is granted at the discretion of the company. Conservative MP Helen Whately, who raised the plans, said the proposals would improve the gender pay gap, help shared parental lea...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Employee Benefits

Santé Group partners with Doctor Care Anywhere

Santé Group partners with Doctor Care Anywhere

Virtual GP services added to offering

Jaskeet Briah
clock 21 May 2025 • 2 min read
61% of employees do not understand employee benefits

61% of employees do not understand employee benefits

Towergate Employee Benefits research

Cameron Roberts
clock 20 May 2025 • 1 min read
Businesses feeling greater responsibility to look after employee health

Businesses feeling greater responsibility to look after employee health

Follows longer NHS waiting times

Jaskeet Briah
clock 16 May 2025 • 2 min read