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

Businesses looking to cut employee benefits generosity amid SSP changes

Businesses looking to cut employee benefits generosity amid SSP changes

42% will increase the prices

Jaskeet Briah
clock 31 March 2026 • 1 min read
Syrona Health launches weight management programme for employees

Syrona Health launches weight management programme for employees

Virtual, clinician-led assessment and prescribing

Jaskeet Briah
clock 25 March 2026 • 1 min read
5m mental health sick days taken in 2026

5m mental health sick days taken in 2026

Simplyhealth research findings

Jaskeet Briah
clock 24 March 2026 • 3 min read