How to Get Support at Work as a Carer

Balancing work and caring responsibilities can be incredibly challenging. Whether you’re looking after an elderly parent, a partner with a long-term illness, or a child with additional needs, the pressures of being a carer can impact every aspect of your life, including your job. But you don’t have to face it alone. If you’re a carer, there are legal rights and practical steps you can take to get support in the workplace.

Who Is a Carer?

In employment terms, a carer is someone who looks after a family member or friend who has a disability, mental or physical illness or who needs extra help as they grow older. This does not include paid care work; it’s about unpaid caring roles that employees take on in their personal lives.

Many people don’t identify as carers, they see it simply as being a good daughter, son, spouse, or friend. But recognising yourself as a carer is the first step to getting the support you need. Even parents of children with disabilities and additional needs may be carers when their children require support above what would be “normal” parenting.

The Struggles Carers Face

Carers often juggle unpredictable demands, hospital appointments, managing medication or stepping in during emergencies. The emotional toll can be high, especially when paired with long working hours, inflexible schedules or unsupportive workplaces.

Common struggles include:

• Fatigue and burnout

• Financial strain

• Reduced career progression

• Stress, anxiety, or depression

• Lack of time for self-care or social activities

Your Rights as a Carer at Work

1. Carer’s Leave

From 6 April 2024, employees in the UK are entitled to one week of unpaid Carer’s Leave each year to provide or arrange care for a dependant with a long-term care need. You don’t have to give evidence of the person’s condition and you can take the leave flexibly, such as a day at a time, even blocks as small as half day.

You are protected from dismissal or suffering a detriment for taking this leave.

2. Time Off for Dependants

All employees are entitled to a reasonable amount of unpaid time off to deal with unexpected situations involving dependants. This includes:

• A breakdown in care arrangements

• A dependant falling ill or being injured

• A dependant having a baby

• An incident at school requiring a parent to attend to school or the child

This is designed for emergencies rather than planned care needs.

3. Flexible Working Requests

From 6 April 2024, employees in the UK can make two statutory flexible working requests per year from day one of employment. You no longer need 26 weeks’ service to be eligible.

Flexible working can include:

• Remote working

• Adjusted start and finish times

• Compressed hours

• Job sharing

• Part-time hours

Employers must consider requests reasonably and respond within two months.

4. Protection from Discrimination

While carers are not directly covered by the Equality Act 2010, you are protected from discrimination by association. For example, if you’re treated unfairly because you care for a disabled person, this could be unlawful.

How to Speak to Your Employer

It can be difficult to start a conversation about your caring responsibilities, especially if you’re worried it might affect how you’re perceived. But honesty is key to getting support.

Here are some tips:

• Plan the conversation. Think about what support you need - flexible hours, time off, or just understanding.

• Request a private meeting with your line manager or HR.

• Be clear and constructive. Explain your situation calmly, and focus on how you can continue to contribute with adjustments.

• Know your rights. Understanding your entitlements helps you ask confidently.

• Suggest solutions. Employers are more likely to say yes when you come with a plan.

Final Thoughts

Being a carer is an act of love and dedication, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your own wellbeing or career. By understanding your rights and taking steps to seek support, you can find a balance that works for you.