Did You Know? Employees Do Not Automatically Have the Right to Work From Home

💡 Wednesday 7 January 2026 – Did You Know – HR

As many businesses return after the Christmas break, questions around home and hybrid working often re-emerge.

Did you know?
Employees do not have an automatic right to work from home. While employees can make a statutory flexible working request, employers are entitled to refuse requests where there is a valid business reason.

Employers must:

• Handle requests in a reasonable manner

• Follow the statutory process

• Provide a clear business justification if refusing

Clear policies and consistent decision-making are essential to avoid grievances or claims of unfair treatment.

At Consensus HR, we help employers manage flexible working requests fairly, legally, and in line with business needs.

Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Owner:
“Flexible working needs clear structure. Employers must balance employee requests with operational requirements — and that’s where good HR guidance is essential.”

👉 Need support managing flexible working requests?
https://www.consensushr.com

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