Today, Carents released a report based on a survey of over 1,000 carents, mainly UK women in their 50s and 60s, who are balancing work alongside caring for older relatives. Carents are adult children who care for ageing parents.
Their experiences highlight shared challenges faced by many in this generation. With an ageing population and increasing pressure on formal care services, more working adults are providing unpaid elderly care.
The report shows that while supportive workplaces can make a real difference, they cannot meet every need.
Even with good employer support, 70% of carents said they had to reduce their hours or leave work earlier than planned.
Common pressures included:
• Long hours of care
• Fragmented or uncoordinated services
• Limited respite options
• Financial strain
• Emotional pressure
• A general lack of recognition for unpaid care
The findings underline the need for coordinated support from employers, policymakers and services to help carents manage work and care more sustainably.
Read the full report here How Employers Can Support Staff Caring For Elderly Parents | Carents
For more information about how to support working carers visit our employer page Employers | We Care You Care where you'll find information and advice around creating carer-friendly workplaces.