What is ISO 25551?
ISO 25551 provides guidelines for an organizational program for working carers providing care to adult care recipients or long-term childcare recipients.
Caregiving has become one of the most important social and economic issues and as population ages, carers will play an increasingly key role in our communities, providing substantial economic value. Although caregiving is a valued societal resource and often viewed positively by carers themselves, family/friend carers are largely a hidden and unacknowledged workforce. One of the most difficult challenge for working carers is trying to balance employment with caregiving responsibilities.
The Pandemic has increased pressures on carers and CarersUK estimate that an additional 4.5 million people became unpaid carers in March 2020, meaning 1 in 4 (26%) UK adults were providing unpaid care to an older, disabled, ill relative or friend at the height of the pandemic.
The responsibilities around caring are still often thought of as being a part of women’s lives, and women are still most likely to be providing care. Women make up the majority (58%) of carers. Providing support for carers, especially those looking to stay in or return to paid work, is essential if women are to be able to participate fully in the economy and live a life free from poverty in older age.
Who is ISO 25551 for?
The document will be of benefit to those responsible for:
- Workforce planning
- Human resources
- Occupational health and safety
- Diversity and inclusion
Why should you use ISO 25551?
This document can be used in conjunction with an organization’s management systems, human resource programs, and/or equity, diversity and inclusion programs, or on its own in the absence of a formal workplace program to support working carers.
Studies have shown that carer-inclusive policies and programs can help to: retain skilled staff, improve morale and productivity through staff engagement, reduce absenteeism, reduce disability costs and mental health claims, demonstrate the organization’s investment in society, etc. This standard can support organizations in taking steps to create a carer-inclusive environment.