Supporting Carers in the Workplace: What steps can employers take to ensure working carers feel valued and supported?



“There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver,” said Rosalyn Carter.

In one way or another, caregiving touches us all which is why supporting carers in the workplace is so important. With nearly one in seven employees balancing work with caregiving, it’s a role many of us will take on – and one that businesses can no longer afford to overlook. Supporting carers in the workplace isn’t just a compassionate choice; it’s a strategic one that benefits everyone.

“Carers often feel torn between their professional and personal responsibilities,” says Alison Yard, Carers Coach at Parent and Professional. “When employers step in to acknowledge and alleviate these pressures, it sends a powerful message that they are valued – not just as employees, but as individuals with lives beyond work.”

10 Ways to Ensure You Are Supporting Carers in the Workplace

From eldercare to unexpected family responsibilities, the needs of carers are diverse and growing. So, what steps can employers take to build a carer-supportive culture that reduces stress and helps retain talented staff? Let’s look at some effective strategies to ensure you are supporting carers in the workplace.

1. Publicise Carers’ Rights and Promote Awareness

Many carers are unaware of their rights at work, making it essential for employers to communicate available resources. The “Carer’s Leave Act” provides unpaid Carer’s Leave and flexible working rights from day one, empowering carers with more options to manage their commitments.

“Awareness is key,” says Alison. “Carers need to know that their role is recognised, and support exists. When an organisation visibly advocates for carers’ rights, it fosters a positive culture and shows employees they are not alone in juggling these responsibilities.”

Consider implementing educational sessions, regular updates, or dedicated HR points of contact to ensure carers are well-informed about their rights and benefits.

2. Implement Flexible Working Policies

Flexibility is crucial for carers who may need to respond quickly to unexpected situations. Companies can support them by offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, modified hours, job sharing, or compressed workweeks.

Research consistently shows that flexible work arrangements benefit both employees and employers by enhancing productivity and boosting job satisfaction. In fact, the 2024 State of Caring Survey found that 53% of working carers cited flexible hours as a critical support.

Alison explains, “Flexibility isn’t just a perk for carers; it’s a necessity. When companies show that they’re willing to adapt, carers feel appreciated and are more likely to stay committed to their roles.”

3. Establish a Carer-Specific Workplace Policy

A carer-specific policy can provide clarity and consistency for employees seeking support. Such policies might include paid or unpaid Carer’s Leave for emergencies, accommodations for regular appointments, and job protection. Creating a standardised framework ensures all carers receive equal support, which is essential for building an inclusive workplace.

Offering paid leave options can be invaluable for carers facing financial strain and provides peace of mind in knowing their employment is secure during critical moments.

4. Educate and Empower Managers

Line managers play a crucial role in shaping the day-to-day experiences of working carers. Training managers to understand carers’ needs and provide flexible, compassionate support is vital. Nearly 57% of working carers reported that an understanding line manager made balancing work and care easier.

“When managers are trained to recognise and support carers’ responsibilities, it fosters a trusting relationship where carers feel comfortable seeking help,” says Alison. “Knowing that they have an understanding leader can make a massive difference in reducing the stress associated with juggling work and care.”

Empower managers with training to approach carers’ needs sensitively and adjust expectations based on individual circumstances. This not only strengthens employee morale but also enhances team cohesion.

5. Support Carers to Thrive in Their Careers

Offering a dedicated support programme, such as coaching, can make a world of difference for working carers. Coaching provides caregivers with the tools, strategies, and emotional support they need to balance their caregiving duties with a fulfilling career. Through coaching, carers can develop essential skills like time management, stress reduction, and effective communication, empowering them to handle both roles with confidence.

A dedicated support programme can send a powerful message: carers are valued team members with unique strengths, and their contributions matter. When carers feel genuinely supported in their career growth, they bring their best selves to work – a benefit that enhances both their professional journey and the organisation’s overall success.

6. Create Peer Support Networks

Supportive networks within the workplace can significantly benefit carers by creating a sense of community and shared understanding. Carers often face isolation, and peer support can offer valuable advice, resources, and camaraderie.

By establishing a carer network, employers give carers a platform to connect, share experiences, and offer encouragement. “Having colleagues who understand your struggles can be a huge relief. It reinforces that carers are part of a supportive network,” says Alison.

Such initiatives can include regular group meetings, a dedicated online space, or even mentorship programs pairing experienced carers with those new to juggling work and care.

7. Recognise the Skills Carers Bring to the Workplace

Many carers develop invaluable skills, such as time management, empathy, and problem-solving, through their caregiving roles. Recognising and leveraging these skills can not only boost carers’ confidence but also benefit the organisation.

Carers bring resilience and adaptability, qualities that are highly valuable in the workplace. By acknowledging these strengths, employers can help carers see the full value they bring to their roles, making them feel seen and appreciated.

8. Encourage a Carer-Friendly Culture

Encouraging a culture that openly acknowledges carers’ needs helps remove the stigma surrounding caregiving. As Alison notes, “When leaders openly champion carer support, it sets a precedent. It says, ‘We value all parts of who you are, including the responsibilities you hold outside of work.’ This respect fosters loyalty and wellbeing.”

Carers UK’s Carer Confident benchmark is an excellent resource for employers striving to create carer-friendly environments. Employers who adopt this benchmark signal a commitment to valuing all employees and retaining top talent through meaningful support.

What Supporting Carers at Workplace Means for Your Business

Building a carer-supportive workplace is more than just a goodwill gesture; it’s a strategic move to retain skilled employees and create an inclusive, resilient workforce. When carers feel supported, they are better able to balance their responsibilities and contribute fully to the organisation.

Investing in these initiatives and supporting carers in the workplace can not only improve employee satisfaction and reduce turnover but also save companies significant costs associated with recruiting and training new staff. In Alison’s words, “Supporting carers isn’t just about keep people at work – it’s about building a workplace that truly cares, where people feel valued and inspired to bring their best.”


Share this story



Sign up for industry updates