Supporting Carers in the Workplace: Key Strategies for Employers During Carers Week

Carers Week, taking place from 9th to 15th June 2025, shines a spotlight on the invaluable contribution made by unpaid carers across the UK. According to recent statistics, there are over 6.5 million unpaid carers in the UK, many balancing caregiving responsibilities with full-time employment. As an employer, it’s essential to recognise the challenges faced by carers and create a supportive work environment that accommodates their needs.

Understanding the Challenges faced by Carers

Being a carer is a rewarding, yet demanding role. Many employees juggle the responsibilities of caring for a loved one while also meeting the demands of their job. This can result in stress, fatigue, and difficulty focusing at work. The mental and physical strain on carers can lead to a higher risk of burnout, absenteeism, and decreased productivity.

Employees with caregiving responsibilities may face unique challenges, including:

• Time constraints: Attending medical appointments, managing household tasks, and providing daily care can make it difficult to adhere to traditional working hours.
• Emotional strain: Caring for someone with a chronic illness, disability, or a mental health issue can lead to stress and anxiety, affecting both the carer’s personal and professional life.
• Financial pressures: Many carers may struggle with financial stability as they balance work with caregiving responsibilities, and some may experience loss of income if they need to reduce hours or take time off.

The Business Case for Supporting Carers

There is not only a morale and potential legal argument to supporting employees who have care responsibilities, it can also have other positive effects. Studies have shown that when organisations prioritise the wellbeing of their employees, including carers, they see improvements in engagement, retention, and overall productivity. By offering flexibility and resources to support employees in their caregiving roles, businesses can reduce absenteeism, improve job satisfaction, and enhance employee loyalty.

Carers are often highly dedicated, resourceful, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities. Supporting them in balancing work and care responsibilities can help them thrive in both areas of their life.

How Employers Can Support Carers: Practical Steps

1. Flexible Working: The Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023 grants all employees the right to request flexible working from the first day of their employment. Previously, employees needed at least 26 weeks of service to make such a request. The updated legislation, which took effect in 2024, makes it easier for all employees, including carers, to request flexible working arrangements like remote work, flexible hours, or part-time roles. Employers should carefully consider these requests, ensuring they are only declined for one of the nine statutory reasons. Additionally, if an employee is caring for a disabled loved one, employers should seek legal advice before refusing a flexible working request to avoid potential discrimination by association.

2. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): EAPs provide carers with confidential support, including counselling and wellbeing resources, helping them manage emotional and practical challenges.

3. Carer-Friendly Workplace Culture: Promote an environment where employees can disclose their caregiving roles without fear of stigma. Train managers to handle these discussions sensitively and offer regular check-ins to address issues early.

4. Right to Disconnect: Support a healthy work-life balance by setting boundaries around work hours.

5. Carer Leave: Offer additional leave for carers to attend appointments or manage emergencies. Carers are entitled to time off under the Employment Rights Act 1996, but many businesses offer extra carer-specific leave for added support.

Read our guide on supporting carers with sudden care responsibilities.

The Future of Support for Carers in the Workplace

Carers Week 2025 serves as a valuable reminder of the essential role that carers play in society and the need to support them in their professional lives. By raising awareness and offering practical support, employers can help employees manage the unique challenges they face while balancing caregiving and work responsibilities.

Looking ahead, businesses have an important role to play in shaping the future of carer support in the workplace. With ongoing discussions about the “right to disconnect” and increased recognition of carers’ rights, it is crucial for organisations to adopt carer-friendly policies now, rather than waiting for legislative changes. The introduction of the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023, for example, allows all employees to request flexible working from day one, making it easier for carers to balance their responsibilities.

Supporting employees who are carers is not only a moral obligation but also a smart investment in your workforce. By recognising the challenges carers face and implementing supportive measures, employers can encourage an inclusive and compassionate workplace that enhances employee wellbeing and drives business performance.

For more information about this article or any other aspect of people services reimagined, download our App for Apple or Android, and contact your integrated HR, employment law and health & safety team at AfterAthena today.