Balancing Work and Caring - Knowing Your Rights and Finding Support

For many unpaid Carers in Sutton, balancing work alongside caring responsibilities can feel like a constant juggling act. Whether you’re supporting a partner, parent, child or friend, combining employment with caring is both demanding and deeply important. The good news is that you don’t have to manage this alone - and there are rights and local support available to help.

The Challenge of Balancing Work and Caring

Many Carers continue working while providing essential care, often adjusting their routines, reducing hours, or taking time off when needed. This can impact income, career progression, and wellbeing.

You might be:

• Taking calls from healthcare professionals during work hours

• Managing appointments alongside your job

• Feeling tired, stressed, or under pressure to “do it all”

Recognising these challenges is important - and so is knowing that support exists to help you stay in work while managing your caring role.

Understanding Carers’ Leave

Carers in England now have the right to Carers’ Leave, which allows you to take time off work to deal with caring responsibilities.

This means:

• You can take up to one week of unpaid leave each year

• The leave can be taken flexibly (as individual days or half-days)

• It is available from the first day of employment

• Your job is protected while you take this leave

Carers’ Leave can be especially helpful for attending appointments, arranging care, or dealing with unexpected situations. Even though it is unpaid, it provides important flexibility and recognition of your role as a Carer.

Your Right to Flexible Working

Flexible working can make a significant difference when you’re balancing work and caring. You have the legal right to request flexible working arrangements, such as:

• Adjusted start and finish times

• Compressed hours

• Remote or hybrid working

• Part-time hours or job sharing

Flexible working requests can help you create a routine that works for both your job and your caring responsibilities. Employers must consider your request reasonably, and many are increasingly recognising the value of supporting Carers in their workforce.

Talking to Your Employer

One of the most important - and sometimes most difficult - steps is talking to your employer about your role as a Carer. Many people worry about how this conversation will be received, but being open can lead to practical support and understanding.

Here are some tips:

Plan ahead: Think about what support or adjustments would help you most

Be honest: Explain your situation clearly and calmly

Know your rights: Understanding Carers’ Leave and flexible working can strengthen your confidence

Focus on solutions: Show how adjustments can help you remain productive at work

Remember, you are not alone - many employers are becoming more aware of unpaid Carers and the importance of supporting them.

You Shouldn't Have to Choose Between Caring and Working

Being a Carer is an important role - but it shouldn’t mean facing unnecessary barriers at work. With the right information, support, and conversations, it is possible to find a balance that works for you.

If you’re an unpaid Carer in Sutton, reaching out to Sutton Carers Centre could be the first step towards feeling more supported, informed, and in control of your situation.

Carers UK have some good information about your rights in work here.

How Sutton Carers Centre Can Help

Sutton Carers Centre offers dedicated support to help Carers navigate work and caring responsibilities, including:

• Advice on employment rights, including Carers’ Leave and flexible working

• Support preparing for conversations with employers

• Help exploring options to stay in or return to work

• Emotional support to manage stress and build confidence

Whether you’re unsure about your rights or need help planning your next steps, the Centre is here for you.