Employees can make a statutory flexible working request from their first day, asking to change their hours, working pattern or place of work. Put the request in writing, including the change you want, when you want it to start and whether you have made a previous request; you can usually make two requests in a 12-month period. Your employer should consult you, decide within two months unless you agree to an extension, and may refuse only for one of the permitted business reasons. Check the latest ACAS guidance, and consider advice from an employment solicitor if the process appears unfair or may involve discrimination.