carers' rights

From April 2007 carers will have the right to request flexible working from their employers. This will help people who have caring responsibilities for older relatives to be able to fit this around their work patterns, and make it easier to respond to situations during work hours.

The Department of Trade and Industry has published some useful information about the new rights, and who they apply to. You can read this at www.dti.gov.uk/employment/employment-legislation/employment-guidance/page35663.html.

new deal for carers

The Department of Health is developing a national strategy to shape support for carers. As part of this, a nationwide consultation with carers is being undertaken by a market research company called Opinion Leader (who have been commissioned by the Department of Health) to make sure that carers' voices are at the heart of the Government's new carers' strategy.
For further details and to register for an event, click here.