The importance of flexible benefits for working carers is well understood. Our recent articles have all highlighted the growing need for employers to address how they support employees balancing work and eldercare responsibilities.
“Feeling appreciated can go a long way toward not only accepting a stressful situation, but enjoying life more.” Helpguide.org
Recent data from Age UK found:
- 6 million UK adults worry about supporting their parents as they age.
- 5 million people struggle financially and emotionally to balance work and caregiving responsibilities.
- 25% of the workforce are caregivers, many of whom feel unsupported.
- 60% give up career opportunities.
However, employees who feel supported:
- are more loyal to the organisation and stay longer.
- are less distracted and more productive.
- have lower stress levels and better work-life balance.
- feel included and more able to have open conversations.
We are lucky to work with some forward-thinking organisations taking positive action to improve their support for informal carers at work. One thing they all have in common is that they are listening to their people and providing a range of support that their employees can choose from.
Three ways employers are supporting their caregivers:
One. Implementing a clear carers policy. This includes flexible and hybrid working options that outlines on-going support and normalises the needs of carers in their organisation. Many companies are going beyond the legal requirement of 5 unpaid days’ annual leave for elder care under the Care Leavers Act, and are offering paid days and longer time frames for leave.
However, sadly, the UK still lags behind most of Europe…
Two. Fostering a workplace carer support network. This includes training managers to spot burnout and signposting support available. From employee forums for eldercare issues and buddy schemes within the workplace to apps and online portals with information to support finding care services and financial aid.
“The Phoenix Group Carers network hosts informal meetings, regular events and signposts support via emails and in its regular events. It is also piloting a safe-space forum and a buddy scheme to create a community of carers who can connect with other in similar situations to theirs.” The Phoenix Group, Best for Carers and Eldercarers 2024 Winner, Working Families
Three. Offering practical support as part of the employee benefits package. One option growing in popularity is a homesharing scheme for employees to access to support their elderly loved ones.
Homesharing pairs a householder (an older person with a spare room) with a vetted sharer who provides live-in companionship and light support in exchange for affordable accommodation. The Two Generations homeshare scheme helps employees connect their elderly relatives with vetted live-in companions, creating peace of mind.
Benefits of Homeshare for employers:
- Retains top talent & reduces absenteeism
- Improves productivity & well-being
- Strengthens DEI efforts
- Minimal admin—employees contract directly with Two Generations
Learn more about our corporate offering here or speak to the team today about how Two Generations can help your organisation better support caregiving employees.
Call us now on 03333 44 7738.
