Balancing care and career: A look into the lives of Sainsbury's carers

At Sainsbury's, we believe in celebrating everyone’s ability and understanding the multifaceted lives of our colleagues. Many of our colleagues are not only dedicated professionals, but also compassionate carers who balance work with the responsibilities of caring. As part of carers week this month, we’ve been hearing experiences from some of our caring colleagues, who shed light on the challenges they have faced and how colleagues and managers can help.

Juggling responsibilities with flexibility

For some of our colleagues, flexible working arrangements are key to managing their dual roles effectively. Claire highlighted the support from her line manager, which has allowed her to take time for her daughter’s appointments and emergencies.

"My line manager is really supportive and understands when I need time," shared Claire. Similarly, Shahid appreciates the understanding and empathy from his manager: "Flexible working really helps me to manage my care responsibilities alongside my work."

Kerry finds that working early shifts allows her to fulfil her work commitments while still being there for her parents when they need her. Lisa emphasised the benefits of working from home and the importance of having personal time for activities like crocheting and gym sessions to maintain her own wellbeing.

The power of supportive colleagues and managers

The strength of Sainsbury's lies in its people, with managers and colleagues extending support to their peers. Claire is grateful for colleagues who check in on her, saying, "I have a lot of supportive colleagues in the department I work in. They check in on me from time-to-time to see how I am and how my family is."

Kerry’s regular check-ins with her manager are a chance to talk about her family, not just work. Lisa appreciates the understanding from her manager when she needs to attend appointments and meetings, which has freed her from any guilt around asking for time off. Shahid values the reassurance from his manager and the connection through the ‘We Care’ colleague network, where carers share stories and support each other.

Unseen challenges of being a carer

Being a carer involves navigating a realm of unpredictability and emotional strain. Claire conveyed the lack of consistency, saying, "Being a carer has no consistency, it can be settled one minute and up and down the next."

Kerry highlighted the unplanned nature of caregiving, while Lisa pointed out that not all who need care have visible disabilities. Shahid shared the relentless nature of caring, "Caring never stops – it’s a 24/7, 365 commitment in many cases."

How we can all help caring colleagues

Even small gestures can have a profound impact on carers. Claire suggested simply asking how colleagues are doing, as it can make a significant difference. Kerry and Lisa echo this sentiment, emphasising the importance of checking in and offering a kind word. Shahid reminds us to understand that every carer’s situation is unique and requires varying levels of commitment.

Support for carers at Sainsbury’s

We recognise the dedication of colleagues who care for others and understand the importance of supporting them in every way we can. We offer a range of resources and guidance to help our carers navigate their responsibilities while balancing work and wellbeing, and we’re proud to have achieved the Carer Confident Level 2 accreditation. Here are some of the benefits available to all our colleagues.

Carers Passport:

• A simple tool that supports our carer colleagues to have an honest conversation with their line manager and document any support and/or flexibility agreed to help combine care and work.

Care Concierge by Legal & General:

• Free, confidential expert advice
• Guidance on care options, funding, legal and financial matters

GroceryAid:

• 24/7 confidential helpline for emotional support
• Counselling services via telephone or face-to-face
• Specialist advice on benefits and financial support

Carers UK – Jointly App:

• Free access for Sainsbury’s colleagues
• Helps coordinate and manager care tasks efficiently

We are committed to supporting our colleagues who balance work and caring responsibilities, and value their contributions throughout carers week and every week! A huge thank you to every colleague who contributed to this article.