Carers UK has produced a free resource pack for employers with more information about the new right for carers to request flexible working.
The charity estimates carers who look after a disabled or chronically ill friend or relative make up 12% of the UK workforce – one in eight people. There are about 2.6 million carers set to gain from the new law, due to come into effect on 6 April.
The pack draws on existing good practice by businesses in flexible working and shows how flexible arrangements can be designed for the advantage of both employer and employee.
Carers UK has also set up an assesment tool for employers, helping organisations to assess how they are supporting carers.
Imelda Redmond, chief executive of Carers UK, said: “Many businesses are already seeing the benefits of flexible work patterns for their employees in greater staff retention, higher skill levels and cost-efficiencies. Good flexible working arrangements need planning but they need not be difficult.”
