The scheme recognises employers and looks to ‘inspire’ others to follow suit. It assists employers to build a supportive and inclusive workplace for employees who are, or will become, carers and to make the most of the talents that carers can bring to the workplace.
According to Employers for Carers one in seven people are juggling work with caring for someone who is older, ill or disabled. Sodexo achieved level 2 Accomplished status following an assessment in five areas:
- Preparation – how employers are enabling carers to identify and recognise themselves?
- Policy and guidance – how are employers making support for carers transparent?
- Practical support – what practical provisions and arrangements are available for carers?
- Peer support – how are employers connecting and engaging carers?
- Promoting support – how are employers communicating carer support?
Mark Goodyer, human resources director at Sodexo UK & Ireland, said: “We are committed to supporting the wellbeing of our people, ensuring they feel they belong, are able to act with purpose and thrive in their own way.
“It is our ambition to offer a flexible first culture to help our people balance work and personal commitments in a way that suits them, By advocating and supporting those with caring responsibilities we are helping support social mobility in the communities in which we live and work. Our Parents and Carers employee network plays an important role providing valuable peer support through initiatives and regular events.”