As people live longer and medical care improves, more of us are stepping into caregiving roles – often without realising it. Balancing work and care can be tough, but your employers might be able to help. Here are some ways to find support and strike a balance that works for everyone.
Do you care?
You might not call yourself a ‘carer’. Many people don’t. But caregiving comes in many forms. Maybe you’re a full-time caregiver. Maybe you help occasionally – doing the shopping, giving someone a break or stepping in when needed.
Whatever your role, it’s crucial to look after yourself too. And that includes asking for support – from friends, family and especially your employer.
What is a caregiver?
Caregivers support people who can’t fully care for themselves due to age, illness or disability. That might mean cooking, cleaning, companionship, managing medication or helping with hygiene and appointments.
You don’t need to be a professional to be a caregiver. You might be helping a parent, partner, child or friend. Whether you’re offering occasional help or providing full-time care, it still counts.
If you don’t see yourself as a carer your employer probably doesn’t either. And if they don’t know, how can they support you?
You’re not alone
According to RedArc, which offers nurse-led support and guidance, around 5.8 million people in the UK are carers Footnote [1]. Many don’t realise it, especially those supporting loved ones with mental health challenges. That lack of recognition can stop people from getting the help they need.
Christine Husbands, commercial director of RedArc, puts it clearly: "Mental health doesn't discriminate and so anyone could find themselves in a position of supporting another person with their mental health, normally without having been trained to do so. It's therefore important that the availability of mental health support is promoted to help anyone who might need it.”
How your employer can support you as a carer
Being a caregiver is tough. It can drain you physically, emotionally and financially – especially if you’re juggling a job too. But your employer likely wants to support you to achieve a good outcome for everyone.
Start with a conversation
Talk to your employer. Be clear about what you need to stay in work while managing your caring responsibilities. Most employers aim to be flexible and family-friendly.
Did you know that in the UK, there are around 3 million working people who are also unpaid carers Footnote [2]? And another 2.6 million people have left work entirely to care for someone Footnote [2].
You’re far from alone.
Another 2 million have cut their hours Footnote [3], and over half of carers say flexible working helps them manage both roles Footnote [3]. So, don’t be afraid to speak up – your employer might be more willing to help than you think.
What does flexible working look like?
Flexible working isn’t a one size fits all. It could mean:
- Part time hours – fewer days or shorter shifts.
- Remote work – cutting commute time by working from home or another location.
- Compressed hours – working full-time hours over fewer days.
- Flexi-time - adjusting your start and finish times.
- Job sharing – splitting responsibilities with a colleague.
Before you talk to your employer, ask yourself:
- What changes to your schedule would give you more breathing room?
- Would working from a different location help?
- Do you need the option to adjust things at short notice?
- Would a temporary arrangement work better right now?
Be honest, be realistic and be prepared to test some options and show ‘give and take’. Flexibility works both ways.
Know your rights and resources
Check your company’s policies. Things are always evolving. Since 2024, the Carer’s Leave Act gives you the legal right to take one week of unpaid leave per year for caring duties Footnote [4].
Your employer might offer more than you realise – especially if you haven’t shared your situation yet, or have been keeping it under wraps. Support might include:
- Emergency leave – for last minute caregiving needs.
- Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) – access to counselling, wellbeing services and mental health support.
- Peer support groups – connect with other carers in your workplace.
- Wellbeing resources – help with nutrition, fitness and general health.
- Expert advice - access to clinical or financial guidance through partnerships with organisations like Citizens Advice.
How to cope and protect your wellbeing as a carer
Caring for your loved one can stir up a mix of emotions – stress, guilt, frustration. These feelings are normal, but if left unchecked, they can lead to burnout. That’s why it’s crucial to look after your own wellbeing while supporting someone else.
You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Here are some practical strategies to help you cope and stay well:
- Tap into support networks
You’re not alone. Connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Talking to someone in a similar situation can shift your mindset, offer new perspectives and help you swap useful tips. You might also benefit from speaking with a trained therapist or counsellor. - Use local services
Don’t try to do everything yourself. Look into home support services – like housekeeping or meal prep – through public, private or community providers. Delegate tasks like grocery shopping to trusted friends or family members when possible. - Talk to your employer
If you’re finding it difficult to balance your commitments, talk to your employer. You may find there are flexible working options available to you. Many employers want to help – you just need to start the conversation. - Get financial advice
If caregiving is affecting your finances, don’t wait to seek help. A financial adviser or local support service can guide you through benefits you may be entitled to and help you plan for future expenses. - Prioritise self-care
Set boundaries. Know your limits. You don’t have to be available 24/7. Look into respite care so you can take breaks and recharge. Keep up with hobbies and activities that bring you joy – they help you stay connected to your identity beyond caregiving. - Manage stress and emotions
Try mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation or grounding exercises. Relaxation methods such as progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery can easy anxiety. Even gentle exercise boosts your mood by releasing endorphins. - Acknowledge grief and change
Caregiving often comes with emotional ups and downs – especially if your loved one’s health is declining. It’s okay to feel sadness, guilt or anger. Give yourself space to grieve and process these emotions.
It’s ok to reach out for help such as speaking to your GP or accessing talking therapies like counselling Footnote [5]. Everyone is different, some people prefer to talk to friends or join a support group, but it’s important to seek help if you feel you need some more support.
Where to turn for help
There are a wide range of resources and support services available to help carers manage their responsibilities. We’ve pulled together just a few to, hopefully, help you feel informed, supported and less isolated.
- Carers UK - provides support for employees who are carers.
- Citizen’s Advice - help and support for carers.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - help with supporting someone with cancer.
- MoneyHelper - details of financial support available to carers.
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) - help with supporting young people in crisis.
- NHS Services - find local authority adult social care services.
- NHS Social care and support - support and benefits services.
- NHS Carer Guides - further help and information for carers.
Looking ahead
Caregiving is a journey with highs and lows. Some days will feel easier than others. But with the right tools and support, you can care for your loved one while still caring for yourself. You don’t have to do it all alone – help is out there. Reach out. You deserve it.
