Flexible working and the Equality Act

If you are disabled or caring for a person with a disability then there are additional rights which may help you when applying for flexible working.

If you are disabled

If you are disabled, employers have a duty to make sure that adjustments are made to the workplace in or to accommodate the needs of disabled employees.

This can include lifts and ramps for those using wheelchairs, orthopaedic chairs for those with back problems, sign language interpretation and flexible working arrangements.

Caring for a disabled person

Employees who care for a disabled person have the right to request flexible working.

The employee must be either a relative or partner of the adult

or live at the same address as them. The definition of ‘relative’ is very wide and includes step-relatives and in-laws as well as adoptive relationships.

This means that if someone makes a flexible working request because they want to care for their disabled relative, they will be protected against being treated less favourably.