This week we celebrated Carers Week, a time to think about the carers we know and the incredible role they play in our lives. Carers are people of all ages who provide unpaid support to a family member or friend who needs help and can’t look after themselves. This can look like a parent looking after their young child, or a teenager looking after their disabled grandparent. Their care often goes unseen, yet it’s essential to help a loved one stay safe and connected.
Carers Week is a chance to recognise their dedication, raise awareness of the challenges they face, and find ways to make workplaces, schools and universities more carer-friendly.
Supporting colleagues with caring responsibilities can make a big difference in the way they show up at work. Whether it’s through flexible working, open conversations or simply understanding their challenges, it can make a huge difference to their wellbeing and ability to stay in work. By creating a supportive, compassionate culture, we can help carers feel seen, valued and able to balance both work and care.
Here are 5 simple, meaningful ways to show up for a colleague who is a carer:
1. Start with understanding
Take time to listen without judgement. Carers often juggle unpredictable and emotionally demanding responsibilities, so simply creating space for an open conversation can make a huge difference.
2. Be flexible where you can
Whether that’s working hours, location, or deadlines, having a bit of flexibility can be really helpful for carers balancing work alongside caring responsibilities. Even small adjustments can have a big impact on their ability to stay in work.
3. Check in regularly
Don’t assume everything is fine. Gentle, regular check-ins show you care and create a safe space for them to share their feelings. This can be done in 1:1’s or over a coffee, either way it’s a really good start to have regular check-ins.
4. Have a look at your carers policy
Check out your workplace policy on caring rights and help your colleagues understand this too. If your organisation doesn’t have a carers policy, it could be a good idea to speak to someone in HR to put these practices in place. By having compassionate policies towards carers, we can build places where they feel more comfortable.
5. Help them access support
Whether it’s signposting to policies, networks, or wellbeing support, helping someone find the right resources can ease some of the pressure they’re carrying.
