The Caregiving and Work Project

October 25, 2011; By: Audrey Miller
All About Estates

With economic uncertainty, an aging population and fewer workers, a Canadian study is underway to document the Availability, Accessibility and Effectiveness of Workplace Supports In Canada. The purpose of the study is to determine what types of workplace supports employers in the private, public, broader public and non-profit/voluntary sectors currently offer to employees, including but not limited to flexible work arrangements, paid and unpaid leaves, extended benefit plans and employee/family assistance programs. I had the very good fortune of having participated in a round table discussion on this study, called ‘Caregiving and Work’ which was presented by the Centre for Families Work and Wellbeing (University of Guelph); Work Life Harmony Interprises and the Vanier Institute of the Family. As this is such an important area I wanted to share it with you and invite you to participate.

“An aging population, a shrinking labour force, and limited resources and supports for family caregivers affect individuals and organizations across Canada. Employees caring for adults (disabled adult children, siblings, spouses, parents, grandparents, extended family members and friends) face considerable challenges fulfilling their multiple responsibilities, commitments and obligations at home and work.

More than one in four Canadian employees who are caregivers experience high levels of financial, physical and/or emotional stress that can affect their health, their effectiveness as a caregiver, and their labour force participation. Many caregivers quit their jobs, reduce their hours, experience high absenteeism and forfeit career ambitions and aspirations. Their income drops, their health suffers and their stress levels rise.

Discover how employers are supporting caregivers, reducing stress at home and work, addressing the multiple challenges associated with caregiving and work. Learn more about this exciting project Caregiving & Work and participate in the survey.” Be Part of the Solution

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