The UK government has announced plans to introduce sweeping new work rights for millions of unpaid carers, including parents of seriously ill children, under a consultation launched on Tuesday. The proposals, unveiled by Minister for Employment Rights Kate Dearden, aim to help carers balance their jobs with family responsibilities, potentially allowing thousands to return to work or remain in employment.
Current challenges for unpaid carers
Around three million unpaid carers in the UK currently juggle work with caring duties, yet many are forced to reduce hours, delay returning to employment, or leave the workforce entirely. This costs the economy an estimated £37 billion annually. Since April 2024, employees who care for a dependant have been entitled to up to one week of unpaid leave every 12 months, but Carers UK has long argued that existing workplace support does not reflect the realities of caring.
Proposed measures under consultation
The government is seeking views on a range of measures, including:
- Paid carer's leave: For the first time, carers could receive paid leave, providing financial security while they care for loved ones.
- Right to return to work: A new protection similar to maternity leave, allowing carers to return to their jobs after a period of intensive caring.
- Improved guidance: New guidelines to help workers and employers understand carers' workplace protections.
These changes could enable thousands with caring responsibilities to re-enter the workforce due to increased flexibility and financial support.
Hugh's Law: Support for parents of seriously ill children
The consultation also includes proposals known as Hugh's Law, named after Hugh Menai-Davis, who died aged six from cancer in 2021. His family, alongside the charity It's Never You, have campaigned for paid leave and financial support for parents following a child's serious diagnosis. The government stated that for parents facing a child's serious illness, maintaining employment can compound an already devastating situation.
Ministerial statements
Kate Dearden, speaking at a Carers UK event in London, urged stakeholders to contribute their views. She said: "Whether you're caring for an elderly parent, a partner with a long-term illness, or a child fighting a serious disease, you shouldn't have to choose between your job and those you love."
Minister of State for Care Stephen Kinnock added: "Unpaid carers provide a vital service, caring for their family, friends and loved ones. We must make sure they are not left behind or forgotten."
Reactions from campaigners and employers
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, called the consultation a "significant moment" in the campaign for stronger rights for working carers. She noted that 2.8 million unpaid carers already balance work and care, and helping them remain in employment is both a social and economic priority.
TSB, which already offers enhanced carers' rights including 70 hours of paid leave annually, welcomed the consultation. Nicola Bannister, TSB's CEO, said the policy has helped colleagues balance work and caring responsibilities.
Ceri Menai-Davis, Hugh's father, described the launch as "a hugely significant moment." He said: "No parent should have to choose between being at their child's hospital bedside and paying the mortgage." He encouraged parents, carers, employers, and organisations to contribute to the consultation, which runs until September 1, to help shape a system that reflects the realities families face.
