What happens when work and caring responsibilities collide?
For many people, the working day does not end when they log off. It shifts to childcare, supporting family members or managing ongoing caring responsibilities.
However, the impact of caring responsibilities at work is often not visible. As a result, the pressure this creates can go unnoticed.
The impact on mental health
Balancing work and caring responsibilities can be challenging.
Research from LawCare’s Mind the Caring Gap report (June 2024) highlights just how significant this issue is. Around 77% of carers reported that their mental health had been negatively impacted, with 70% also experiencing an impact on their physical health. Commentary around the report also highlights that many carers are managing these responsibilities over a sustained period, often alongside demanding roles.
In addition, around 66% of carers reported receiving little or no support, highlighting how often individuals are managing these responsibilities alone.
When combined with workplace pressures, this can lead to ongoing stress, fatigue and difficulty switching off.
Why carers are often overlooked
One of the key challenges is that many employees do not identify as carers.
Responsibilities often develop gradually, and some people may feel their situation is not significant enough to mention. Others may worry about how it will be perceived.
As a result, employers may not always be aware of the level of support needed.
How employers can support caring responsibilities
For employers, small adjustments can make a significant difference.
Flexibility is key. This might include adjusted working hours or understanding when priorities need to shift.
Managers should feel confident having open and supportive conversations. Creating a culture where caring responsibilities are recognised helps reduce stigma.
Clear communication around available support is also important so employees know what options are available.
How employees can manage caring responsibilities at work
For employees, open communication can be an important first step.
Sharing challenges early can help identify practical solutions, whether that is flexibility or adjusted expectations.
It can also help to plan ahead where possible and identify times when additional support may be needed.
Importantly, recognising your own limits matters. Trying to manage everything alone can quickly lead to burnout.
Balancing support and consistency
Employers often want to ensure fairness across teams.
Having a clear approach to managing conversations and documenting adjustments helps maintain consistency.
For employees, understanding how decisions are made can also provide reassurance and clarity.
How Thrive can help
At Thrive, we support organisations and individuals to take a practical and inclusive approach to wellbeing.
We help managers understand the impact of caring responsibilities and feel confident responding in a supportive and consistent way. We also support employees and teams in creating realistic and sustainable ways of working.
If you would like to explore how to better support carers in your organisation, we would be happy to help.
Contact us at enquiries@thrivelaw.co.uk or call 0113 861 8101.
Caring responsibilities are part of everyday life for many employees.
Recognising and supporting this can reduce stress, improve wellbeing and create more sustainable ways of working for everyone.
