Consultation on carers and the launch of Employers for Carers
The Government has launched the National Carers Strategy, ‘Carers at the heart of 21st-century families and communities’, containing a number of measures intended to help carers balance caring with paid work. The launch was followed by the formation of Employers for Carers, a membership forum for employers who want to support those members of their workforces who are carers.
Under the National Carers Strategy, the Government promises in the short term (between 2008 and 2011) to arrange:
- A review of the definition of carer and flexible working for carers.
- An awareness-raising campaign for employers around the right to request flexible working.
- A good practice guide for employers on supporting carers and integrating them into the workforce.
- Flexible provision of skills and training so that it is accessible for carers.
Employers for Carers, launched by national charity Carers UK is a membership forum for employers who want to support the people in their workforce who are carers. It offers a range of support from information on good practice to training and consultancy.
Employers for Carers will:
- Identify and promote the business benefits of supporting carers in the workplace.
- Influence employment policy and practice to create a culture which supports carers in and into work.
- Work with the Government to deliver the commitments promised in the National Strategy for Carers.
Details about Employers for Carers can be found at:
https://www.thehrdirector.com/manager/~WRD2715.tmp
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