Carers Policy

The Society recognises that some colleagues have to balance their work commitment with caring responsibilities for sick, elderly or disabled relatives, partners or friends. The Society is keen to support any colleagues who have responsibility for caring for others, and we would encourage colleagues to be open with their Line Manager so that there can be discussions about the support which the colleague feels that they need from the Society.

Time off work

The Society will always endeavour to agree to reasonable requests for time off work to accommodate colleagues who have caring responsibilities. Requests will only be rejected where the request for time off significantly interferes with the business operations.

For colleagues who wish to change their working hours during to caring responsibilities, please refer to the Society’s Flexible Working Policy.

Some colleagues may need time off work to deal with an emergency situation, and this type of leave request is covered by the Society’s Emergency Dependants Leave Policy.

Colleagues are also reminded that the Society has a Career Break Policy which provides another potential option for colleagues who wish to consider taking time off work.

The Society will exclude any absences from the attendance management process where the reason for absence is linked to the care of someone who is disabled according to the Equality Act.

The Society will make every effort to limit the effect on your pay. For colleagues who are caring for others with recognised disabilities, the Society may be able to offer paid time off work when required. Where a colleague is providing care for someone who does not have recognised disabilities, the Society will endeavour to provide support by looking into other potential options for leave, agreeing to unpaid leave or annual leave requests.

Other considerations

For colleagues seeking financial support from the local social services department, please contact them with queries and make a request for a carers’ assessment.

If you need to make or receive urgent calls in connection with your carer responsibilities, please ensure that you agree this with your Line Manager so that your access to a telephone at work is agreed between you, particularly because there are some areas within the business where use of a phone is otherwise prohibited.

Further Support

Please speak to your Line Manager or HR Advisor in the first instance for further guidance.

Employee Assistance Programme

The Society have funded a FREE confidential helpline service for colleagues to talk to professionals on work or home related issues. All calls are treated in the strictest confidence and the Society does not have access to any information that you discuss with the service provider.

CALL 0843 208 4568 - A dedicated 24/7 personal line to provide you with help, support and advice when you have a medical or personal problem and you need someone to turn to.