In Worcestershire, there are an estimated 63,500+ adult, unpaid carers (census 2011) and this figure is growing.  In February 2019, Carers UK produced a report on the impact of working on carers and the statistics show that 1 in 7 working age people are in a caring role. .

One of the reasons that carers have to give up work is due to the lack of support in the workplace. There are stark warnings for employers, in terms of staff recruitment, retention costs and unmeasured health costs. The report highlights that supportive and understanding employers, flexible working policies and the right to additional paid time off were ranked as being the most important factors to working carers.

We has been working for the last year with local employers to emphasise both  employee and business benefits and are proud to say that they now have a strong foundation to say that Worcestershire is well on its way to being committed to working carers. Some fantastic organisations have signed up to the Working for Carers initiative, which supports employers, to identify, recognise, and support working carers in Worcestershire.

We are delighted to report that Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, University of Worcester, Hewett Recruitment, Southco, Roots HR, YSS, Advance Trust, BDHT, Young Solutions, Simply Limitless, Carers Careline, Onside advocacy and Roundabout are amongst those organisations dedicated to paving a stronger future for the changing workforce of tomorrow.

Adele Cope, Director of Human Resources at the University of Worcester, said: “We are really pleased to be working with Worcestershire Association of Carers. At the University we make every effort to support our staff to work flexibly, recognising the importance of treating each employee as an individual with changing needs. We are committed to inclusion at every level and to helping our staff achieve their own rich potential.”

If, as an employer, you are interested in signing up to the Working for Carers membership scheme  you will receive training and advice for employers, help to support and retain staff members with caring responsibilities alongside an enhanced reputation locally.

If you are interested in finding out more about Working for Carers, why it is good for business, and good for the community please get in touch with Jane Taylor at Worcestershire Association of Carers on [email protected] or call 01905 751354.