Family & Caring
Balancing work with family or caring responsibilities can bring important questions. Find clear, practical information to help you understand your options and think about what might work for you.
Popular Family & Caring workplace questions
Understand the different types of leave that might be available to support your caring responsibilities.
How can I talk to my employer about caring responsibilities?
Practical steps for having constructive conversations about balancing your family life and your job.
Information on the process for making a flexible working request and what to consider before you apply.
Learn about emergency time off for dependants, when an employer may refuse a request and the steps you can take next.
What should I do if my caring responsibilities affect my work?
Explore ways to address challenges and discuss possible adjustments with your employer.
What support might be available to help me balance work and family?
Find information about workplace policies and statutory rights that might support your situation.
Understand your options for taking urgent leave when unexpected family or caring situations arise.
I need time off to care for someone
Steps to take when you receive an invitation from Human Resources.
I am balancing work with caring responsibilities
What happens when you raise a concern formally at work.
I am having a baby and need to understand my options
What to do if meeting minutes or outcomes are incorrect.
I am returning to work after family leave
Practical advice for managing nerves and communicating effectively.
How to ask for clarity before you step into a workplace meeting.
I am worried about managing work and family responsibilities
How to request a reasonable postponement to get ready.
Guidance on appraisals, PIPs, and formal performance reviews.
My caring responsibilities are affecting my work
Your legal rights to accompaniment by a colleague or union rep.
I don't know what support may be available
Preparation and protocol for official workplace hearings.
Related categories
Information about holiday, time off and different types of leave that may be relevant to family and caring.
Support with looking after your wellbeing while balancing work and caring responsibilities.
Plain-English information about your rights at work when you have family or caring responsibilities.
What this category covers
- Balancing work and caring responsibilities
- Family-related leave
- Returning to work
- Flexible working
- Time off for caring responsibilities
- Emergency situations involving dependants
- Talking to your employer about family responsibilities
- Understanding possible next steps