As part of Carers Week 2019, which runs from 10 to 16 June, Kenneth Gibson MSP is encouraging businesses in North Ayrshire to become Carer Positive employers.
Carer Positive is a scheme backed by the SNP Government and delivered by Carers Scotland, to encourage and celebrate those employers who create a supportive workplace environment for those who combine work with caring responsibilities.
Around 270,000 people in Scotland currently balance caring with holding down a job However, Carers Scotland estimate that as many as 1 in 5 carers will give up work because of the stress associated with doing so. This can lead to financial hardship and move carers and their families onto a dependence on benefits.
A Carer Positive employer should acknowledge that some of their employees have to deal with the daily demands of caring for dependents and therefore promote flexible working arrangements. There is no requirement for a formal Carers Policy, as long as the support available for carers is clearly communicated to staff.
Becoming a Carer Positive Employer is a straightforward, free process achieved through completing a self-assessment form.
Mr Gibson, who has pledged his support for Carers Week, said:
“Not only is it good employment practice to make every member of staff feel supported in the workplace, carer-friendly policies bring many benefits to employers themselves. These can reduce levels of stress, reduce sickness absence, boost staff morale, and increase productivity levels.
“I would encourage any business which is already promoting carer-friendly policies to complete the self-assessment process and become a certified Carer Positive employer. If you are unsure about how to ensure carers in your workplace feel supported, Carers Scotland have a wide range of informative resources to meet the diverse needs of all employers, big and small.”
To celebrate the week, SNP MSP Tom Arthur will host a reception in the Scottish Parliament, on behalf of Carers Scotland, on Tuesday 11 June from 6pm to 8pm.
To find out more and submit a form, please visit:
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