At a recent Business Networking South Leicestershire (BNSL) meeting, we heard a powerful and thought-provoking presentation from Michaela (Kyla) Forty of Family Care Advice.
Michaela’s session focused on an often overlooked but hugely important topic for businesses: supporting employees who have caring responsibilities.
What is the Carer’s Leave Act?
Michaela began by asking members what they knew about the Carer’s Leave Act, which came into effect on 6th April 2024. Many were surprised at how much — or how little — they knew.
Key points include:
- Day one entitlement for employees
- Applies to those caring for a dependant or someone needing long-term care
- Up to one week of leave per year
- Can be taken as half days, full days or a full week
- Unpaid (unless company policy states otherwise)
- No requirement to provide evidence in writing
- Employers cannot refuse, but may postpone in exceptional circumstances
- Employees return to the same role with the same terms and conditions
This legislation represents a significant shift in recognising the challenges faced by working carers.
Who Are Carer Employees?
Michaela highlighted that carers are often hidden within businesses and may not identify themselves as such.
They may include:
- Parents of adult disabled children
- Sons or daughters supporting ageing parents
- Extended family members caring for relatives
- Even friends or neighbours supporting vulnerable individuals
These employees are often balancing work with significant personal responsibilities, which can lead to:
- Stress and burnout
- Increased absenteeism
- Reduced productivity
Michaela shared a striking statistic:
Over 600 people per day leave employment due to the pressures of caring.
The Cost of Not Supporting Carers
Michaela outlined the impact on businesses when carers are not properly supported:
- High absenteeism
- Increased pressure on other staff
- Reduced productivity and quality of work
- Higher recruitment and training costs
- Loss of valuable skills and experience
- Risk of discrimination claims
- Damage to employer reputation
UK businesses currently lose an estimated £4.8 billion due to unplanned absences linked to caring responsibilities.
The Benefits of Supporting Carer Employees
On the flip side, Michaela demonstrated how supporting carers benefits both employees and employers:
- Retain experienced and skilled staff
- Improve employee motivation
- Reduce recruitment costs
- Lower absence levels
- Improve wellbeing and workplace culture
Businesses could potentially save £3.4 billion</strong through improved employee retention.
How Businesses Can Support Carers
Michaela provided practical steps businesses can take:
- Identify carer employees — look for signs such as stress or changes in behaviour
- Ensure staff understand their rights under the Carer’s Leave Act
- Provide access to accurate information, advice and support
- Develop internal carer support groups
- Update policies to include flexible working options
With the right support, employees are far more likely to remain in work and continue contributing as valuable members of the team.
Final Thoughts
Michaela’s presentation was both eye-opening and highly relevant for modern workplaces. As more people balance employment with caring responsibilities, businesses that adapt and support their teams will be better positioned for long-term success.
If your business wants guidance on supporting carers, understanding legislation or navigating care-related challenges, Michaela is an invaluable resource.
Find out more: https://familycareadvice.co.uk/
Join Us at BNSL
If you’d like to hear more insightful presentations like this and connect with supportive local professionals, come along to a BNSL meeting as a guest.
— The BNSL Committee
