Letting your employer know that you have care responsibilities is a concern for some carers, but it’s an important step toward getting the support you need. Here are some tips to help you feel more confident and comfortable when having the conversation. 

Take Time to Prepare 

• Think It Through: Spend a little time writing down your care responsibilities and how they affect and do not affect your work. This can help you explain your situation clearly without forgetting important points. 

• Know Your Rights: Learning about workplace policies and your rights as a Carer can make you feel more prepared. Our “Carers Rights”, and “Carers Rights At Work” discovery sessions will support you in this.  

Choose the Right Person and Time 

• the person to speak to. They can ensure your personnel file is updated to reflect this conversation and any outcomes from it.  

• If for any reason you do not feel comfortable talking to them, ask yourself who is the best member of staff who could support you in a meeting with them? Can they attend the event with you, to offer support?  

• You might be surprised to find that there is a workplace Carers Champion. They would be able to offer advice and signposting to resources and polices.  

• Find a Calm Moment: Look for a quiet time to talk, such as a one-to-one meeting or another private opportunity. A relaxed environment can make it easier to open-up and share your feelings. 

What to Say and Do

1. Be Open and Honest: 

1. Start by gently sharing your situation. You could say something like: 

“I’d like to talk about something important in my personal life. I’m a Carer and I wanted to explore how we can work together and possibly make a few adjustments to support me in my work. I really value my job and my team, so this is an important conversation for me”  

Remember you are not required to give any personal details about the person you care for, but if you are happy to do so, some basic understanding of this relationship may help people see your situation more clearly.  

2. This sets the tone for a positive, understanding conversation. 

2. Work Together on Solutions: 

1. Think about adjustments that might help, like flexible hours, remote working, or time off for appointments. 

2. Show you’re committed to your job by suggesting ideas that work for both you and your employer. 

3. Ask for Support: 

1. Let your manager know what kind of support would make a difference for you. 

2. This could be understanding your need for flexibility, or helping you access resources that can support Carers. 

It’s OK to Have Concerns

It’s normal to feel worried about how your employer might react. 

• Will They Understand? You might worry about how they’ll see your commitment to work. Reassure them that you want to manage your responsibilities and stay dedicated. 

• What About My Career? It’s natural to feel uncertain about how this could affect opportunities, but starting the conversation shows you’re proactive and thoughtful. This could go a long way towards those opportunities.  

• Feeling Nervous? It is only human, opening up about personal challenges can feel tough, but it’s an important step in getting the understanding and support you deserve. 

Share Helpful Resources

 It might be a new consideration for your employer:  

• Signposting them to us at Forward Carers: Mention we are a trusted organisation that helps Carers understand their rights and offers advice for workplace support. 

• Carers UK: You can also give them links to key government documents and information about workplace rights, published by Carers Uk.  

• Local Services: Highlight resources like the Birmingham and Walsall Carers Hubs, or the local Carers service in your area, which provide practical support and advice for Carers in your area. 

A Gentle Reminder 

Having this conversation is about creating a partnership with your employer. Many workplaces are becoming more aware of the challenges Carers face and are keen to support their employees. 

Remember, you’re doing an incredible job balancing work and caring responsibilities, and there is help available if you need it.