Andy Briggs, Government Business Champion for Older Workers and Business Champion for the Ageing Society and FTSE 100 CEO of Phoenix Group comments on Carers Rights Day on the importance of businesses prioritising the rights of working carers. He says;

“Employed carers should not have to choose between continuing to work and caring for loved ones. Just like working parents, working carers face ongoing challenges as a result of their commitments and need specific support. As we recognise the important role of all carers on Carers Right Day and the additional pressure many face due to the pandemic, we call on the Government to accelerate legislation on five days statutory Carers Leave for those carers who want to continue to work, while caring for someone who depends on them.

“Rights for working carers have long needed to be formalised, and in light of COVID-19 it is more important than ever that business leaders embrace greater flexibility around working hours and put solid support in place for employed carers. I further urge all business that can, to make Carers Leave paid leave, to relieve some of the pressures employed carers face and enable them to continue in current employment.”

Carers Rights Day 2020 is on Thursday 26th November

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Enquiries

Rachel Esland
PR and Public Affairs Manager
Phoenix Group
07892 705093
Rachel.esland@thephoenixgroup.com

Leonie Garfield
Account Director
Lansons
07530 626 212
leonieg@lansons.com

Notes to editors

Andy Briggs is CEO of Phoenix Group and the Government’s Business Champion for Older Workers. He is also the Government Champion for the Ageing Society Grand Challenge, part of the modern Industrial Strategy. In these roles he represents business views to Government on ageing issues, building greater understanding of the barriers in order to overcome the challenges and promote the opportunities, with the ultimate aim of creating an economy that works for everyone, regardless of age.