SMEs Support of Working Carers Has Big Benefits for Wider Community

As established community leaders, UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are beginning to consider how they can better support their employees with caring responsibilities for older relatives and friends. With forecasts showing nearly one in four people will be over 65 by 2040 and the demand for adult social care soaring (International Longevity Centre UK), SMEs can demonstrate their commitment to their community’s resilience by addressing the growing eldercare gap.

Community anchors

Supporting employees with eldercare needs embeds SMEs deeper in their local communities. By implementing flexible working arrangements, providing caregiving resources, and fostering a culture of understanding, SMEs demonstrate that they are compassionate and forward-thinking organisations that care for their staff and wider communities.

Key benefits for SMEs include:

Building community trust: ongoing commitment to employee welfare enhances the company’s standing in the local area.
Increased employee loyalty and engagement: supporting policies that foster a deeper sense of loyalty, reducing turnover, and strengthening workforce stability.
Boosting employer brand: demonstrating leadership in social responsibility attracts talent, customers, and partners who value community-minded businesses.
Driving business resilience: a healthier, more engaged workforce means increased productivity and adaptability in changing times.

Building on their existing leadership role, SMEs that support their employees’ eldercare responsibilities will improve well-being and strengthen community bonds. As demographics change, eldercare support is also a strategic move for sustainable SME growth.

Working together, SMEs and communities can better navigate these future social challenges.

Two Generations SME Homeshare model

Two Generations helps employers support working carers through Homeshare, a managed, safeguarding-first service that provides reliable, affordable support at home for employees’ older relatives. Designed for 50-300 employees, our SME model has UK-wide access, an annual management fee, and a 50% employee discount for those who use the scheme.