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.
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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.”