Telling your employer about your caring responsibilities is your choice. But doing so may open up support options and legal protections to help you stay in work. There is help to make balancing work and care more manageable.
Flexible working
If you've worked for your employer continuously for 26 weeks or more, you have the legal right to request flexible working. This can help you balance your job with your caring role.
Flexible working options may include:
- changing your hours (part-time, flexi-time, compressed hours)
- working from home
- job sharing.
You’ll need to submit a written request to your employer outlining:
- the change you’re asking for
- why it would help
- any effects on the business and how these can be managed.
Your employer must consider your request fairly. If they refuse, it must be for one of several specific business reasons (e.g. extra costs or difficulty covering work). They must also explain their decision in writing.
Visit Carers UK for a step-by-step guide on how to request flexible working.
Time off for emergencies
As a carer, you are legally entitled to take reasonable time off for emergencies involving someone who depends on you, such as:
- an unexpected illness
- an accident
- a breakdown in care arrangements
- a bereavement
- an incident at school involving your child.
This right covers the time needed to deal with the situation or arrange other care. Whether this leave is paid or unpaid depends on your employment contract—check with HR or your line manager.
Carer’s Leave Act 2023
Since 6 April 2024, you can now take up to one week of unpaid carer’s leave each year if you have unpaid caring responsibilities. This is a new legal right introduced by the Carer’s Leave Act 2023.
This is in addition to time off for emergencies.
Protection from discrimination
Under the Equality Act 2010, if you are caring for someone who is elderly or disabled, you are legally protected from:
- direct discrimination (e.g. being treated unfairly because of your caring role)
- harassment related to your caring responsibilities.
Talk to your HR department if you think you’ve been treated unfairly.
Getting extra support
If your caring role is putting your job at risk, ask your local council for a Carer’s Assessment. This looks at what support could help you stay in work, such as:
- help for the person you care for at home
- daytime activity support
- direct payments to arrange care
- information about carer services in brent.