Under new proposals, the government will require employers with 250 or more workers to improve the support for unpaid carers from spring 2027 so they can continue in their careers while carrying out their caring responsibilities.

The plans are part of cross-government plan to improve recognition of unpaid carers, referring them to services and helping them access health services, and employment and education support.

The Department for Business and Trade is also consulting on changes to employment rights and carer’s leave, with proposals to introduce paid carer’s leave and a right to return to work following a period of intensive caring.

This consultation seeks views on whether the existing entitlement to unpaid carer’s leave is working effectively for both carers and employers, and what more government could do to ensure that carers are supported to remain and progress in work. It will look at options for statutory leave entitlements for carers and parents of seriously ill children, and other support measures such as improvements to guidance and communications.