Care for the carers in your business

1 in 7 in your workforce will be caring for someone who is older, disabled or seriously ill. Find how you can support them this Carers Week 2025

Monday 9 June 2025 marks the start of Carers Week, a national campaign to raise awareness of the challenges unpaid carers face and to recognise the vital contribution they make. This year’s theme, ‘Caring About Equality’, highlights the inequalities that carers experience and calls for action to ensure they have equal access to support in work, health, and life.

In Warwickshire, tens of thousands of people provide unpaid care to a loved one who could not manage without their help. Many of these carers are also in employment. Balancing work with caring responsibilities can be physically and emotionally demanding. Without the right support, many carers are forced to reduce their hours or leave work altogether, which can lead to financial hardship and lost talent for employers.

Employers in Warwickshire have a unique opportunity to support staff who are carers and help reduce the inequalities they face. By fostering a carer-friendly workplace, employers can improve staff wellbeing, retention, and productivity.

How businesses can make a difference

• Start the conversation: Use Carers Week to raise awareness about caring roles and encourage staff to identify themselves as carers.
• Promote flexibility: Offer flexible working arrangements, carer’s leave, and understanding line management to help carers balance their responsibilities.
• Signpost support: Share information about Employers for Carers, which provides practical tools and guidance for supporting working carers.
• Connect with local services: Warwickshire residents can access the Carers Wellbeing Service, which offers emotional support, advice, and help navigating local resources.

Caring Together Warwickshire offers dedicated support to employers who want to become more carer friendly. Through their Carer Friendly Employer Programme, they provide guidance on developing carer policies, training for managers, and practical advice on identifying and supporting carers in the workplace. By working with them, you can create a more inclusive environment that recognises and values the contribution of carers—helping your organisation retain skilled staff and promote equality at work.

By supporting carers in your workforce, you’re not only helping individuals, you’re also building a more inclusive and resilient workplace for everyone.

You can find out more about Employers for Carers by visiting their website: https://www.employersforcarers.org/

Local support is also available for carers living in Warwickshire. Find out more by visiting www.warwickshire.gov.uk/carers