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Currently, more than 3 million people – one in seven of the workforce – juggle the responsibilities of caring and paid employment. Given the stresses and strains that can result, it is unsurprising that one in five carers gives up work to care full time. And, many of these employees are an organisation’s most valuable staff, the 45-64 year-olds at the peak of their careers. With fewer young people entering the labour market, organisations need to retain their existing staff, especially at a time when the economy and therefore employment is growing. By recognising the special needs of carers, employers can hold on to their experienced staff, and avoid the costs of recruiting and training new employees.
Employers need to support carers. Far from compromising your business objectives, research shows that offering carers flexible ways of working brings impressive business results.
The business benefits of supporting carers include:
✓ lower staff turnover
✓ reduced recruitment and training costs
✓ greater productivity
✓ lower absenteeism
✓ higher staff morale
✓ higher levels of trust in working relationships
✓ improved company image
✓ improved recruitment.
Organisations that have introduced flexible working and special leave arrangements for carers have judged them a success. The message is – it makes business sense to care for carers.
