The case for care leave: families, work and the ageing population

As society faces the challenges and opportunities of an ageing population, longer life expectancies and extended working lives, more and more people are trying to manage work alongside caring for older, seriously ill or disabled loved ones.

This research shows that the UK is falling far behind other countries, many of which are finding creative solutions to support their workforce and address the challenges of ageing populations. If the UK is to cope with the critical demographic challenge we are facing and reap the social and economic benefits of helping carers to juggle work and care then more must be done. With 89% of the public in support of a right to a short period of time off work to care, it is time for policy makers to make statutory care leave a priority.