New Government Consultation
- Healthwatch West Berkshire
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Could Improve Rights for Unpaid Carers and Parents of Seriously Ill Children
The Government has launched a new consultation that could lead to stronger workplace rights and support for unpaid carers and parents caring for seriously ill children.
Across the UK, millions of people balance paid work alongside caring responsibilities for a family member, friend, partner or child.
While caring can be rewarding, it can also be physically, emotionally and financially challenging, particularly when trying to maintain employment at the same time.
The consultation forms part of the Government's review of employment rights for unpaid carers and follows commitments made through the Employment Rights Act 2025 and the wider "Plan to Make Work Pay". The review will consider whether current support goes far enough and what additional measures could help carers remain in work while fulfilling their caring responsibilities.
Why Is This Important?
Around three million unpaid carers are currently juggling work and caring responsibilities. Many find themselves reducing their hours, turning down opportunities, taking unpaid leave, or leaving employment altogether because the demands of caring become too difficult to balance with work.
Parents of children with serious illnesses often face additional challenges, including lengthy hospital stays, treatment appointments and the emotional impact of supporting a child through life-changing health conditions. The consultation will also explore whether these families need greater employment protections and financial support.
What Is Being Considered?
The Government is seeking views on:
Whether current information and guidance for unpaid carers is sufficient.
Whether additional workplace support is needed.
The potential introduction of new leave arrangements.
Whether paid carers' leave could help people stay in or return to work.
Additional rights and support for parents of seriously ill children.
Possible protections similar to maternity leave arrangements, including rights to return to work after periods of intensive caring.
No decisions have been made yet, but the consultation will help shape future policy and legislation.
Why Healthwatch Is Interested
At Healthwatch West Berkshire, we regularly hear from residents about the pressures of caring for loved ones. Many carers tell us they struggle to find the right support, manage appointments, navigate services, and maintain their own wellbeing alongside employment.
Carers play a vital role in supporting our health and care system, and their experiences deserve to be heard. Any changes that help carers remain financially secure, protect their wellbeing and maintain employment could have a significant positive impact on individuals, families and communities.
Have Your Say
The Government is encouraging unpaid carers, parents, employers, charities, support organisations and members of the public to share their views.
The consultation is open until 1 September 2026, and feedback will help inform decisions about future employment rights and support for carers.
If you are an unpaid carer or have experience caring for a seriously ill child, this is an opportunity to help shape future support for families facing these challenges.
What We Want to Know
Healthwatch West Berkshire would also like to hear from local carers:
Have caring responsibilities affected your ability to work?
Have you ever had to reduce your hours or leave a job because of caring?
Would paid carers' leave make a difference to your life?
What support would help you balance work and caring responsibilities?
Your experiences can help us understand the challenges facing carers in West Berkshire and ensure local voices contribute to national conversations.
Tell Us:
Call: 01635 886210
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