Parents, and other people who combine work with caring for dependents, have some specific rights protected by law. These include various types of leave and the right to be considered for flexible working.
Carers
If you are an employee but also have caring responsibilities for children, elderly relatives or dependants did you know...?
- You can apply for flexible working.
- You are entitled to time off for dependents to deal with unforeseen circumstances.
Parents
Parents are also entitled to time off for dependents and the right to apply for flexible working. There is more information about the rights of parents - such as parental leave, maternity, paternity and adoption leave - on the Families & Parent Carers page
Further questions
The Waving not drowning project
The Waving not drowning project is run by Janet Mearns for parents of disabled children and carers of adults who want to combine paid work with their caring responsibilities. Email janet.mearns@workingfamilies.org.uk to sign up for the free Waving not drowning newsletter, which comes out two or three times a year, and for the monthly e-bulletin.
The project’s dedicated helpline for questions about work and caring is 020 7017 0072.
From time to time, the project runs events and produces publications. Information about events and publications can be found on Working Families’ website, in the newsletter and in the e-bulletin.
Acas
The Acas Helpline is the place to go for both employers and employees who are involved in an employment dispute or are seeking information on employment rights and rules. The Helpline provides clear, confidential, independent and impartial advice to assist the caller in resolving issues in the workplace.
The right to apply for flexible working: A short guide for employers, parents and carers.
Time off for dependents page
Acas Helpline 08457 47 47 47. or http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1362