Flexible Working FAQS
Q1. I receive a request from a member of my team who wishes to change their working pattern, what do I do?
Determine whether this request is an informal request that will require no change in contract, an informal request that will require a change of contract or a formal request for a permanent change. See flow chart below:
When the request is for formal flexible working , follow the guidance here
Do be mindful, if agreeing to contractual hours reductions, for example, that where an individual has a visa, that might have an impact on its validity and/or reporting requirements- seek HR advice.
As advised in the flow chart, discuss requests with your Unit Administrator/Business Manager and complete the appropriate paperwork. A meeting with the member of staff may be required
Approved requests will be sent to HR operations team by your Unit Administrator/Business Manager.
HR will action any payroll changes in the next available payroll cycle and will issue a contract amendment letter
Q2. Do I need to submit flexible working application, if there is no change in hours
See Informal procedure flow chart above.
Review and follow guidance on Informal flexible working procedures here
Send record of change form to HR operations team
If the change relates to New Ways of Working (NWW) see the quick links section for the NDM policy and confirmation of change form.
Q3. Can I agree compressed hours?
There are a number of considerations when it comes to compressed hours therefore all requests for compressed hours should first be discussed with your Unit Administrator/Business ManagerFurther information
The information below provides information surrounding other policies related to working flexibly.
- Details on the university formal flexible working policy are available here
- Employees guide to applying for formal flexible working, including forms are available here
- NDM Parents and Carers gateway available here . The intention of this page is to provide links to all the information and resources, in one place, which may be useful for staff who are considering starting a family, are expecting, have children of any age or if they are a carer.
- The universities working from home guidance is available here - This page provides information for managers about setting up working from home arrangements for employees, and managing and supporting remote workers
- NDM actively promotes the provision of a family friendly working environment. The University of Oxford recognises the demands on work life balance and offers a range of family friendly policies and practices
- Flexible Retirement – Flexible retirement allows employees, with approval, to achieve a mix of retirement and continuity at work. For further details, including information on eligibility and the application process, can be found here.
- Return from Maternity Leave – An employee may wish to return to work after maternity leave on a phased return using accrued annual leave or make a flexible working request. University guidance can be found here and you are encouraged to discuss any queries with HR and your Business Manager .
