MOST bosses and staff are unaware of a change in the law making it easier to request flexible working, which comes into force next week, new research has suggested.

Separate surveys of 1,000 workers and 1,000 employers by conciliation service Acas found that seven out of 10 workers and four out of 10 employers did not know about the change.

Staff who have worked for their employer for 26 weeks or more already have the right to ask for flexible working, but from April 6 this will apply from the first day of employment.

Acas chief executive Susan Clews said: “These changes will be coming into force next week and it is important for bosses and staff to be prepared.

“Flexible working can bring many benefits in workplaces and the starting position should be to consider what may be possible.”