Plans are afoot to simplify flexible working for employers

The consultation process will look at ways of raising awareness among staff of the right to request flexible working. It will also consider whether to scrap the requirement that employers notify staff in writing that their request has been accepted.

Employer and employee representatives, parents, unions, business and family organisations will be included in the consultation process.

Sarah Jackson, chief executive of campaigning charity, Working Families, said: "We knew an announcement like this had to come soon so we are pleased to see it. The only problem I have is that they are considering taking away the written document from employers when staff are granted flexible working. Flexible working will cause a permanent change to employees' working times and if something is not put in writing,employers and staff could be vulnerable."

The announcement follows the Government's extension of the right to request flexible working to parents with children aged 16 or under in May this year.

Employment relations minister Pat McFadden hopes that the consultation process can make flexible working arrangements simpler. He said: "Parenting requirements don't end as children get older. We think it is right to extend this successful scheme and help parents of older children access the flexibility they need."

Government has also pledged that it will launch an awareness raising campaign to target groups, such as fathers and carers, who have low knowledge of flexible working.