Supporting a member of your team who has caring responsibilities
It can be a great time of upheaval and worry when an employee's family member or prescribed person is unwell, under medical care or in need of significant care due to illness, frailty, or disability. Creating a culture of trust, flexibility and inclusion where carers feel valued and supported can improve work-life balance and well-being, as it facilitates employees to manage their own time flexibly. It is important that managers maintain a culture of support and caring underpinned by a flexible working culture. People managers can support employees balancing work and caring responsibilities, employee well-being and career development during this period. Good communication with the employee throughout this period will make the employee feel valued and supported and more likely that they will stay in work. This guide provides an overview of flexible working and leave options for employees who are carers and guidance on making a plan with employees which will support you, as a manager with planning.