This year marks the 60th anniversary of Carers Rights Day- six decades of raising awareness, pushing for change, and reminding the UK that millions of unpaid carers keep families together and health and social care systems afloat every year. But while the landscape of rights has evolved, many carers still find themselves in the dark about what rights they have – especially in the work place.
As we celebrate this milestone year, we want to shine a light on what carers wish their employers truly understood -because supportive workplaces don’t just comply with the law, they transform carers’ lives.
Carers Are Everywhere
One in seven workers is an unpaid carer. Many don’t disclose their caring role for fear of being treated differently, overlooked for progression, or seen as “less committed.” Carers wish employers knew that caring is not a “personal problem”, it’s the reality for millions of hardworking individuals who have to juggle caring for loved ones and earning an income. Creating environments where staff feel safe to share their situation is the first step towards rights becoming reality.
Carers Have Legal Rights – And They Deserve to Be Respected, Not Resented
Carers’ rights at work often feel hidden in the small print, but they are not optional. Find a summary of your rights at work below:
- Carers Leave Act 2023 – You are entitled to up to 1 working week’s unpaid leave per 12 months. This applies from first day of employment. This can be taken in half or full days or as a block period.
- The Flexible Working Act 2023 – You can request flexible working from first day of employment. Two flexible working requests can be submitted in a 12 month period. Flexitime, remote working, part time, compressed hours are all examples of flexible working. Employers are required to deal with requests in a reasonable timeframe & manner.
- The Equality Act 2010 – Carers are protected from unfair treatment due to caring responsibilities.
If you feel something is wrong always talk to a professional support organisation (like us!)
The Smallest Adjustments Make the Biggest Difference
Whether it’s a predictable rota, the option to work from home on key days, or avoiding last-minute meeting changes, small acts of flexibility can prevent huge amounts of stress. Many carers say they don’t need special treatment, they just need understanding and compassion from their employer.
When Employers Get It Right, Carers Can Thrive
Work gives carers more than income, it can provide identity, stability, and connection to others. Supportive employers see better retention, lower stress, and stronger loyalty. In the long run, valuing carers is always good business.
A 60-Year Legacy
As we mark six decades of Carers Rights Day, let’s move beyond posters and performative actions. Let’s build workplaces where carers feel heard, supported, and empowered to use the rights they already have (and are entitled to).
When employers understand the realities of caring, everyone benefits.
You can download our ‘A Working Carers’ Guide To Your Rights In The Workplace’ by clicking here.
If you are an employer looking for more information about how to support carers in your workplace click here.
If you would like to contact us like email us at admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk, or phone us on 0800 181 4118.
