Forward Carers Awards Employer Commitment Mark to Leonardo Carer Support Dorset

Forward Carers is proud to award its Employer Commitment Mark to Leonardo Carer Support – Dorset in recognition of the organisation’s outstanding commitment to supporting employees with caring responsibilities.

Going beyond statutory requirements, Leonardo Carer Support Dorset has introduced a comprehensive paid Carers Leave policy for staff, demonstrating a clear and meaningful commitment to helping working Carers balance their professional and personal lives.

The award was presented during an inspiring meeting with CEO Donna Blanche and her team. The conversation provided an opportunity to share lived experience as working Carers and to reflect on the importance of ensuring employees can continue to thrive in the workplace while managing the vital support they provide to others.

Rachel Close, Programme Manager at Forward Carers, said:

“Ideally, working Carers should never feel they have to choose between their job and the person they care for. Employment offers so much more than a salary;  it can provide professional identity, job satisfaction, social connection and often valuable respite or space away from caring responsibilities. Employers like Leonardo Carer Support are showing how thoughtful policies and a supportive culture can make this balance possible.”

Leonardo Carer Support has also taken practical steps to embed this support across the organisation, including training a designated Carer Champion to advocate for colleagues. Additionally, they are offering training space to Forward Carers to help engage and support other employers interested in strengthening their support for working Carers.

Donna Blanche, CEO of Leonardo Carer Support, said:

“It’s not just what we do as a service to our community, it’s who we are. That’s why we are committed to supporting Carers both in the community and within our own team.”

This award recognises Leonardo Carer Support’s leadership in creating a more Carer-Friendly workplace and highlights the important role employers can play in enabling unpaid Carers to remain in work, maintain well-being, and remain connected to their communities.