Dentsu UK&I launches emergency carers policy
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Dentsu UK&I today announces the launch of its first ever dedicated emergency carers policy, to coincide with Carers Week from the 6th – 12th June 2022.
In the UK 1 in 8 adults, around 6.5 million people are carers[1] and since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, 9% of carers have given up work[2].
Dentsu’s new policy is designed to support UK employees with caring responsibilities who are unexpectedly faced with an emergency or particularly difficult period related to caring for loved ones. It provides up to two weeks paid leave per year, in addition to annual leave, recognising the significant impact caring can have on someone’s life.
The policy provides guidance for line managers to help team members with caring responsibilities – those who provide a substantial amount of unpaid care on a regular basis for another individual. It also sets out a wide range of emotional and practical support carers can access both within dentsu and through external sources.
Anne Sewell, Chief People Officer, dentsu UK&I said: “Creating a caring and inclusive environment where our people can thrive is of the utmost importance at dentsu. We hope this new policy provides reassurance for our carers and removes the challenges of juggling work and caring responsibilities should they find themselves in an emergency situation so they can focus on their loved ones.”
Sarah Painter, VP Customer Experience, Merkle, who was involved in the creation of the new policy said, “This policy is such a relief to have in place. While I always work flexibly to accommodate my caring needs, knowing this safety net is there eases the anxiety around combining caring and work. It gives me a chance to accurately log time off for appointments and gives me peace of mind that when the next emergency arises, I can put my full attention on my daughter’s needs.”
Dentsu is committed to providing a healthy workplace and in the last year has also introduced pregnancy loss and domestic abuse policies; increased wellness time off - offering everyone three Wellness days leave annually; launched access to a remote GP service and its passionate parents and carers network and wellbeing committee are behind a host of support including free counselling provision and Kind Minds, an ever-growing community of mental health first aiders in place across the business, trained to offer one-to-one support if people, or someone they are concerned about, are experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress.
[1] https://www.carersuk.org/news-and-campaigns/press-releases/facts-and-figures
[2] Carers UK, State of Caring report 2021
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For further information, contact:
Claire Cumberland
Head of Corporate Communications, UK & Ireland
07894 607 983
About dentsu international
Part of dentsu, dentsu international is made up of eight leadership brands - Carat, dentsu X, iProspect, Isobar, dentsumcgarrybowen, Merkle, MKTG, Posterscope and supported by its specialist brands. Dentsu International helps clients to win, keep and grow their best customers and achieve meaningful progress for their businesses. With best-in-class services and solutions in media, CXM, and creative, dentsu international operates in over 145 markets worldwide with more than 46,000 dedicated specialists.