Carers Network at BT

A changing demographic reality means that the UK is seeing a rapid increase in the numbers of working carers. Many carers struggle to cope and, according to Carers UK, 1 in 5 people give up work to care.

We believe this often leaves carers facing financial hardship and businesses without experienced people – but we’re thinking ahead to stop this happening. Carers are indispensable in providing care to someone they know who is ill, frail or disabled.

Despite the prevalence of carers in society, they often face a lack of recognition in all areas of their lives - from employers, doctors and social workers, even friends and family. The main consequence of this lack of recognition, we think, is that carers can suffer more than they need to – and we’re committed to raising awareness to stop this happening. We do this by raising awareness and offering flexible working solutions for our people who need to care for others.

BT’s Carers Network aims to connect and support people within the company who have caring responsibilities. We have over 500 members of the BT Carers Network. 

BT supports Carers’ Week each year, an annual event which aims to achieve greater recognition and support for carers, and to inform those who are not aware of the services and benefits they are entitled to.