Flexible Working
Flexible Working
This free online course from BESA Academy explains the reasons for and the benefits of providing flexible working opportunities for all employees. The course covers what flexible working means, why workers increasingly want to work flexibly, the employer business case, legislation around flexible working, and how flexible working can be implemented in offices and on sites by employers of all sizes.
This course is free of charge. Download your certificate on completion.
What You Will Learn
This 30-minute course covers:
- What flexible working means and the different types of flexible working arrangements
- Why workers increasingly want to work flexibly
- The employer business case for offering flexible working
- Legislation around flexible working and employee rights
- How flexible working can be implemented in offices and on sites
- Practical considerations for employers of all sizes
- How to manage flexible working requests effectively
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is suitable for business owners and senior leaders considering flexible working policies, HR professionals responsible for implementing flexible working arrangements, line managers and supervisors who manage flexible workers, anyone involved in recruitment and retention strategies, and employees who want to understand flexible working rights and options.
Why Flexible Working Matters
Flexible working is increasingly important to employees seeking better work-life balance, and employers who offer flexible working benefit from improved recruitment and retention, higher employee satisfaction, increased productivity, and access to a wider talent pool. Since April 2024, all employees in the UK have the right to request flexible working from day one of employment.
Understanding what flexible working means, the business case for offering it, the legal framework, and how to implement it effectively is essential for employers in all sectors, including construction and building services where site-based work presents unique challenges.
The Benefits of This Course
Completing this course will help you:
- Understand what flexible working means and the different arrangements available
- Recognise why flexible working is increasingly important to employees
- Understand the business case for offering flexible working
- Navigate the legislation around flexible working requests
- Learn how to implement flexible working in offices and on sites
- Manage flexible working arrangements effectively
Course Format
Duration: 30 minutes
Format: 100% online, self-paced
Certification: Certificate available to download on completion
Cost: Free of charge
Frequently Asked Questions
What do fairness, inclusion, and respect mean in the workplace?
Fairness refers to equal opportunities and unbiased treatment, inclusion means creating an environment where everyone feels valued and able to contribute, and respect involves recognising and valuing individual differences and perspectives.
Why are fairness, inclusion, and respect important for businesses?
These values contribute to better employee engagement, improved retention, stronger collaboration, and increased innovation. Organisations that prioritise them often achieve better performance and a competitive advantage.
Who should take this course?
This course is suitable for anyone in the workplace, including leaders, managers, HR professionals, and employees who want to understand and promote a fair, inclusive, and respectful working environment.
Do I need prior knowledge of diversity or inclusion topics?
No. This course is designed to be accessible to all learners and provides a clear introduction to key concepts, along with practical examples and guidance.
How can I apply what I learn in this course?
You can apply the learning by promoting inclusive behaviours, challenging bias, supporting colleagues, and contributing to a positive workplace culture within your organisation.
What are some common barriers to inclusion in the workplace?
Barriers may include unconscious bias, lack of awareness, poor communication, and organisational practices that unintentionally exclude certain groups. The course explores how to recognise and address these challenges.
How long does the course take to complete?
The course takes approximately 60 minutes to complete and is delivered online, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?
Yes. Once you complete the course, you will be able to download a certificate to demonstrate your understanding of fairness, inclusion, and respect in the workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is flexible working?
Flexible working refers to arrangements that allow employees to vary when, where, or how they work. This can include options such as remote working, flexible start and finish times, compressed hours, part-time work, and job sharing.
Do all employees have the right to request flexible working?
Yes. Since April 2024, all employees in the UK have the right to request flexible working from their first day of employment, subject to employer consideration.
Are employers required to approve flexible working requests?
Employers must consider requests reasonably, but they are not required to approve every request. Decisions must be based on valid business reasons, such as operational requirements or impact on performance.
How can flexible working be applied in construction or site-based roles?
While some roles require physical presence, flexible working can still be applied through adjusted shift patterns, staggered hours, job sharing, or flexible scheduling where possible.
What are the benefits of flexible working for employers?
Flexible working can improve employee satisfaction, increase productivity, reduce absenteeism, support retention, and help attract a wider and more diverse talent pool.
What are the benefits of flexible working for employees?
Employees benefit from better work-life balance, reduced commuting time, improved wellbeing, and greater control over their working patterns.
What should employers consider when implementing flexible working?
Employers should consider business needs, team coordination, communication, performance management, and fairness across the workforce when introducing flexible working arrangements.
Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?
Yes. Once you complete the course, you will be able to download a certificate to demonstrate your understanding of flexible working principles and practices.