COMMENT: According to a YouGov poll, 19m people in the UK have provided unpaid care but have not identified as a carer and, furthermore, one in five people are currently giving unpaid care or support to someone.
This can add significant stress when trying to find the balance between caring responsibilities and work, so it is vital organisations are more proactive in providing the necessary support offered to informal carers that will allow them to continue fulfilling both their personal and professional duties as they wish.
So, to mark Carers Week, I am sharing my personal experience to raise awareness of this initiative which is very close to my heart.
I have been involved with the Family Network throughout my time at CBRE, and I was the executive sponsor of the launch of our enhanced carer’s policy last year. I have personally benefited from the policy in ways I had not foreseen and, as a result, it has become increasingly important to me that I champion this initiative.
Showing support
I cared for both my parents in the last years of their lives, and I am incredibly grateful for the support CBRE and my team showed me during that time.
I want to make sure that everyone caring in our business, many of whom do so quietly and privately, feel they have the same support. The time I was able spend with my parents in their time of need was a comfort as I grieved their loss. And, as I reflect on that time, it was thanks to CBRE’s understanding that I was able to do my best for them and not feel conflicted for letting work become my second priority.
CBRE’s carer’s policy comprises compassionate and parental leave, alongside unlimited access to Care Concierge, fully funded by the business. This provides our employees with direct access to a professional who will take the time to listen before providing information and guidance to help navigate the later life care journey. Their team of care experts can also work with employees to find the care loved ones need, whether that is in their own home or in a care home.
There are an additional five paid days leave per year available for caring responsibilities as needed, and a flexible working policy that allows employees the opportunity to request a change to their working pattern.
Employees also benefit from a membership to Carers UK’s business forum, Employers for Care, which offers resources for line managers supporting team members with caring responsibilities.
Being supportive
As an organisation, we are dedicated to looking after our people and we have strived to ensure that the implications of becoming a carer are understood right across the business, whether that be direct team members or line management.
When I first had to explain my caring responsibilities to my then boss, I took a deep breath and hoped he would be supportive – I am confident by talking about our policies we are creating an environment where positive support is a given.
Sarah Wyse is global head of brand at CBRE and marketing and communications for Europe
