UTS is recently accredited as a carer-friendly workplace within the Carers NSW Carers + Employers program. Priya Burgess, an employee of the Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion (Equity and Diversity Unit) provides information on how and why they are prioritised in their workplace.
What prompted UTS the accreditation of the Carers + Employers program?
UTS provides different support systems to carers as part of their staff. Upon learning about the Carers + Employers accreditation program, the application became a must because it allows the group to explore the utilisation opportunities the best practice framework.
What is the reason for recognising carers in the workplace?
Provided that UTS staff will be carers at some point in their life, recognising their efforts, as well as their needs, would be beneficial for them generally. For instance, allowing flexible work and time management can give a means for them to balance their responsibilities that may lead to positive health outcomes. It is also beneficial to the organisation because it could secure good productivity and performance.
What are the key areas of improvement within UTS or workplace in general to foster a carer-friendly environment?
UTS is committed to long-term diversity and inclusion to secure this commitment, policies, initiatives, and different activities that will be applied to the organisation.
It is well-known that different organisations also have a standard support system for carers in catering to their needs, however, the different levels could be improved. One of which would be the managerial position that plays a critical role in supporting them at the workplace and allowing inclusive growth through options.
Moreover, organisations should also focus on the recognition and establishing a profile of caregivers to manifest their various roles and progression as employees.
Why carer-inclusive is important?
Inclusivity for organisation matters largely. It could not only affect an individual but the organisation and the country in general. For example, it could be challenging for some carers to be capable of handling their responsibilities with paid work. Inclusivity could give them an avenue on how to deal with it.
How to overcome carers stigma?
The misconception about carer responsibilities can address through targeted education and exemplification of activities in raising awareness. Amongst these would be the normalising of important provisions that could lead to flexible work.
Considering the expected growth of the population who will need carers, what is their future of working?
A future of organisations committed to supporting caregivers at the workplace, providing various opportunities for their needs and efforts, and the right evaluation of their impact on their jobs. Also, senior leaders involved in engaging with the inclusive growth is also anticipated and this could lead to a better perception of what and how they matter.
What advice could be given to other employers in the carer-friendly workplace?
Every single step matters through committed initiatives. Carers + Employers accreditation program could be a great fit in providing necessary and important resources for developing a better workplace for them. In addition, consultation with the carers could be a great way to understand and know the needs of the employee-base.
What is expected to achieve through Carer + Employers program accreditation?
Among the aims of the UTS are:
• Exemplify the value, respect, and inclusion of carers in the community
• Execute workplace reviews for consultations
• Acknowledge and celebrate the caregivers with their contributions
• Increase awareness of the various needs and support for carers.
