Could Someone in Your Team Be an Unpaid Carer?

Many employers are surprised to learn just how common unpaid caring is within the workplace.

Across the UK, it’s estimated that around 1 in 7 employees is facing the challenges of balancing work alongside caring responsibilities.

This could be for a family member, a friend or even a neighbour. Many people don’t even recognise themselves as carers, meaning they may never ask for help or tell their employer or colleagues about challenges that they face.

An unpaid carer could be supporting an elderly parent, a partner with a long-term health condition, a child with additional needs, or a friend or neighbour who relies on them.

They may be managing medication, attending appointments, providing personal care, or offering emotional support, all while trying to maintain their career.

There are often subtle signs that someone may be struggling to juggle work and caring responsibilities. You might notice a colleague who:

Frequently needs time off for medical appointments.

Arrives late or leaves early more often than usual.

Appears tired, overwhelmed or distracted.

Turns down social events or training opportunities.

Seems anxious about taking annual leave or unexpected phone calls.

Has experienced a recent change in attendance or performance.

The good news is that businesses don’t need to make huge changes to make a meaningful difference.

Our advice? Start by creating an open culture where employees feel comfortable talking about their caring responsibilities, without the fear of being judged.

There are simple measures such as flexible working, adjusted start and finish times, regular wellbeing check ins and clear signposting to services that offer professional support.

Whether you’re a manager, or a colleague, taking the time to listen, asking “How can we support you?” and understanding that caring responsibilities can change over time helps employees feel valued.

Did you know?
Employees who are unpaid carers have the legal right to up to one week of unpaid Carer’s Leave each year, the right to request flexible working from day one, and protection from discrimination because of their association with a disabled person. Creating a carer-friendly workplace isn’t just good practice – it’s also a great way to support employee wellbeing and retention.

At Crossroads Care Charity, we’re passionate about helping employers become more carer-friendly. Whether you’d like advice, information, awareness sessions or simply want to understand how you can better support the carers within your workforce, we’d love to have a chat.

01709 360 272

info@crossroadsrotherham.co.uk