Right to appeal

Where a request has been declined or only agreed in part, there is a right to appeal against the decision.

Officers must set out the grounds for the appeal, in writing, and submit this through the Shared Services Portal within seven calendar days of the date of the original decision being advised.

An officer will be invited to an appeal hearing. The Force will ensure the person who hears appeals is a senior manager, not previously involved in the application. They will be supported through the process by a HR practitioner. They will provide guidance on procedure and ensure a fair process.

All records and notes from the original flexible working discussions and decision will be made available to the appeal hearing.

At the appeal, the area or areas of dispute, including any new relevant information the officer has provided, will be considered.

The chair of the appeal hearing will then adjourn to consider the appeal. Once a decision is reached, the officer will be notified, and the Force will aim to confirm this in writing within seven calendar days.

The decision of the appeal hearing is final.