ASCL strongly supports measures that improve employment rights and workplace support for unpaid carers and parents of seriously ill children, recognising that these individuals often face sudden, unexpected and highly distressing circumstances.

Current information and guidance for both employers and employees is fragmented, difficult to navigate and largely focused on leave entitlements rather than practical workplace support. Clearer, consolidated guidance and signposting to relevant support organisations is needed.

Existing employment rights are insufficient to help many carers balance work and caring responsibilities. The current entitlement of five days' unpaid carer's leave is unlikely to meet the needs of many carers, particularly during periods of acute need.

ASCL supports extending unpaid carer's leave, introducing a statutory paid carer's leave entitlement, and creating a longer period of leave with a right to return to work for unpaid carers facing significant caring responsibilities.

Full response to consultation