The life of a carer can be difficult and challenging. It is often unpredictable and difficult to balance with employment commitments. Employers therefore need to adopt a more positive attitude towards carers and provide them with additional support. This can be in the form of changes to working patterns to help the carer undertake their caring duties. Home working can also help a carer balance their work and care duties.
Employers need to be aware of carers leave and how it should be correctly implemented. Carers leave entitles an employee carer to take time off for family related issues. Typically, this will be for emergencies such a break down in care arrangements or a dependant suddenly becoming ill.
It will cover anyone who is a dependant. This will include parents, spouses, civil partners, and children including adopted children. It will also apply to friends and relatives who live in the same home.
All employees are entitled to unpaid carers leave as it a day one statutory right. Employees have the right to return to their job once the leave is completed. As carers leave is unpaid employees will need to seek support from the Department of Works and Pensions during the leave period. It is up to the employer to decide if they wish to provide their employees paid carers leave.
Employers should now look at updating their policies to clearly say your company’s position on the payment an employee will receive for carers leave. Employers should have a procedure for carers leave. Employees should where possible be invited to apply for the leave and discuss their needs with their direct manager. In the case of an emergency the employee should contact the employer as soon as is practically possible. It is important to note that an employee does not have to supply the employer written proof of their reasons for taking carers leave. For example, you would not be able to ask the employee to provide evidence that their dependant is receiving medical treatment.
This article is only for guidance. If you need legal advice about carers leave, please contact the Quest Advice Line, and speak to an advisor. Quest can help you update your employment contracts and handbooks.
