Greenwich Encourages More Employers to Become ‘Carer Friendly’ During Carers Week 2026

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is marking Carers Week 2026 by encouraging businesses, charities and organisations across the borough to become accredited Carer-Inclusive Workplaces, helping to create more supportive environments for thousands of unpaid carers.

The campaign forms part of this year's national Carers Week theme, "Building Carer Friendly Communities", which highlights the role employers, organisations and local communities can play in recognising and supporting people who provide unpaid care to family members, friends or neighbours.

Earlier this year, Greenwich Council became an accredited Carer-Inclusive Workplace through the Greenwich Carers Centre, recognising the support available to council employees who balance work alongside caring responsibilities.

The accreditation promotes practical measures such as carers' leave guidance and voluntary Carer's Plans, helping staff and managers have open conversations about caring responsibilities and workplace support.

Now, the council and Greenwich Carers Centre are calling on other employers across the borough to follow their lead.

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Communities, said:

"Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution to our communities every single day, often while balancing work and other responsibilities.

"Becoming a Carer-Inclusive Workplace is a practical way for organisations to recognise carers, support staff wellbeing and create more inclusive workplaces.

"We want businesses, charities and organisations across Greenwich to join us in becoming Carer-Inclusive accredited and helping to build a borough where carers feel understood, valued and supported."

According to Greenwich Carers Centre, many unpaid carers struggle to balance employment with caring duties, with some reducing their working hours or leaving jobs altogether due to a lack of support.

Stuart Tattersall, Chief Executive of Greenwich Carers Centre, said:

"Too many unpaid carers struggle to balance work and caring responsibilities, with many reducing hours or leaving employment altogether because they do not receive the support they need.

"The Carer-Inclusive Workplace Accreditation helps organisations recognise carers within their workforce and put practical support in place."

Carers Week Roadshow Across Greenwich

As part of Carers Week, Greenwich Carers Centre is taking a support roadshow to communities across the borough, offering information, advice and guidance to carers and their families.

Council representatives will also be attending the Woolwich event, where residents and organisations can learn more about the Carer-Inclusive Workplace Accreditation and share their experiences of caring responsibilities.

The roadshow will visit:

• Monday 8 June – The Greenwich Centre, 12pm to 2pm
• Tuesday 9 June – General Gordon Square, Woolwich, 11am to 2pm
• Wednesday 10 June – Passey Place, Eltham, 11am to 2pm
• Thursday 11 June – Abbey Wood Library, 12pm to 3pm
• Friday 12 June – Greenwich Carers Centre, Charlton, 11am to 3pm

The week will conclude with a community garden party at Greenwich Carers Centre in Charlton, featuring live music, entertainment, craft stalls and a barbecue. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to contact the centre directly.

Support Available for Local Carers

The council is also promoting its "Our Greenwich, Our Carers" guide, which provides information on local support services, wellbeing resources, financial advice and community groups available to carers across the borough.

In addition, a new Young Carers Support Guide will be launched this week to help residents under the age of 18 who have caring responsibilities.

Businesses interested in becoming a Carer-Inclusive Workplace can arrange a free consultation with Greenwich Carers Centre to explore how they can better support carers within their workforce.

Residents seeking support, advice or information about carers assessments can find out more through Greenwich Council and Greenwich Carers Centre services.