How – and why – employers can help
As well as being a good employer, there are clear business benefits to supporting workers with caring responsibilities. A flexible approach can:
- Increase resilience and productivity
- Reduce recruitment and training costs
- Reduce sick leave
- Attract and keep staff
- Reduce staff stress and increase staff morale
There are many things employers can consider
- Flexible working practices
- Enhanced or paid emergency leave
- Additional leave arrangements, such as carers leave or compassionate leave
- Additional flexible benefits, such as insurance or care vouchers
- Support and understanding from employers – a workplace culture that values and supports carers can make a huge difference
Carers UK’s research published in September 2026 highlights the importance of practical support. When asked what would help people combine paid work with unpaid care, 79% of UK adults identified flexible working and 79% identified a supportive employer or line manager. In addition, 73% supported introducing five days of paid Carer’s Leave.
Read Carers UK’s September 2026 research findings
Free advice and resources from Acas
Acas provides free, impartial advice for employers and employees on workplace rights and good practice.
Employers can find guidance on supporting staff with caring responsibilities, including:
- Understanding and managing Carer’s Leave.
- Handling flexible working requests.
- Providing time off for emergencies involving dependants.
- Developing workplace policies and responding to requests fairly.
Useful resources include:
- Carer’s Leave guidance
- Flexible working guidance
- Time off for dependants
- Free templates and example policies
For advice on a workplace issue, visit acas.org.uk or call 0300 123 1100.