There are nearly 6 million carers in the UK

Today there are nearly 6 million carers in the UK. Nearly half of them also hold down a job. This makes carer support in the workplace essential.There are 3 million working carers in the UK. Of these 1.4 million are men and 1.7 million are women. This percentage reflects the findings of the Government’s first baseline survey of work-life balance, in which 11% of respondents were men, and 15% women.

Add to this, the business applications of social networking and the phenomenon of social entrepreneurs - people trying to achieve 'caring commerce' and seeking business models that include giving something back -  also things we'll see more of in the coming years. The divide between professional and personal contribution to society is becoming less defined, so successful employers will recognise that and build structures to support it. They will want to adopt measures that are seen as supportive to a diverse workforce.