LauraLynn has today announced that it has joined Family Carers Ireland as a member of Caring Employers, which supports organisations to build inclusive and supportive workplaces for employees with caring responsibilities.
The programme is designed to help employers better recognise, understand and respond to the needs of the 1 in 9 people in the workforce who are caring for a loved one with additional needs while also managing their career.
Through best practice guidance, practical supports and tailored recommendations, the Caring Employers programme helps organisations create workplaces where family carers feel recognised, understood and better supported.
Supporting employees who are carers is about creating a workplace where caring responsibilities are recognised and properly understood, and where staff are supported to balance their role at work with the realities of life at home.
For employers, that means stronger staff retention, greater loyalty and a more inclusive workplace culture. For carers, it can make the difference between feeling overlooked and feeling able to continue in work with confidence.
As part of the programme, Family Carers Ireland will work with LauraLynn to develop best practice recommendations for a carer-friendly workplace and provide practical, real-world support for staff with caring responsibilities.
This includes tailored webinars and events, one-to-one support through Carer Clinics, and guidance for employers on workplace policies and entitlements, including Carer’s Leave.
A focus group with LauraLynn employees, carried out as part of part of the programme, highlighted the emotional strain, stress and isolation that can come with balancing work and care.
It also underlined the strong commitment of family carers to remain in employment and the positive impact that employer recognition can have in helping staff feel seen and valued.
Lauri Cryan, Head of Human Resources, LauraLynn, spoke about the programme: “As Ireland’s Children’s Hospice, we understand the realities many families face when caring for a child with complex needs.
“We also know that many of our staff are family carers themselves and how challenging it can be to balance work with responsibilities at home.
“Becoming a Caring Employer formalises our commitment to listening, understanding and providing practical support where possible.
“We look forward to working with Family Carers Ireland to support its mission of care and advocacy.”
Karen McCullagh, Senior Manager Carer Engagement, Family Carers Ireland, said: “By becoming a Caring Employer, LauraLynn is sending a strong message to its staff that carers matter and that their contribution both at work and at home is recognised.
“Supportive workplaces can make a real difference to carers’ wellbeing, job retention and financial security.”