We’re delighted to share the news that the Carer’s Leave Act will come into effect from Saturday 6 April 2024.
Securing these new rights for working carers comes as a result of many years' of campaigning and has opened up more possibilities for carers who are employed to stay in work and is also one of the things carers say they need to return to work.
Since our inception we have fought tirelessly to improve the lives of carers so we are thrilled with the establishment of The Carer's Leave Act. Many of you have provided vital evidence to show that Carer’s Leave could have made a difference to you and we'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported us, or other similar organisations that support carers. The introduction of this act would not have been possible without your continued support.
A staggering 2.3 million carers across Great Britain could be entitled to these new rights.
Detailed information on the Carer's Leave Act can be found on the Carers UK website. In summary:
- The Carer's Leave Act covers employees in England, Wales and Scotland.
- Employees are entitled to up to one week’s unpaid leave per year if providing or arranging care for someone with a long-term care need.
- This leave can be taken flexibly (in half or full days) for planned and foreseen caring commitments.
- It is available from the first day of employment.
- It provides the same employment protections to employees as other forms of family-related leave, including protection from dismissal.
Our objective now is to make sure that as many carers know about their new rights and the law is implemented well. We are keen to support employers as they go about implementing the right as a part of our Carer Friendly Employer Program.
The Carer Friendly Employer Program is designed to support you throughout your journey towards building a positive and inclusive workplace for all staff who are, or who will become carers.
On completion of the Carers Trust Heart of England Carer Friendly Employer Program, you will be able to use our Carer Friendly Employer logo on your materials and will receive a certificate acknowledging your commitment to employees. To find out more about the program please click here.
More information on the Carer's Leave Act can be found here on the Carers UK website. We’d be really grateful if you are able to spread the word amongst family, friends, colleagues at work and more broadly about the new rights and our information and advice for carers.
