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What are my rights as a working carer?

Your rights in work come from two sources:

  • The law gives you ‘statutory rights’ which everyone has. 
  • Your contract of employment gives you ‘contractual rights’ which can be more generous than statutory rights. 

In this section, we're providing guidance about your statutory rights as a working carer. However, it's always worth checking your contract of employment, staff handbook, HR policies or letter of appointment to see if you have any contractual rights on top of your statutory rights. 

Note: For further information about your general rights, see the gov.uk website. 

For a summary of your statutory rights, you can also take a look at our factsheet, Your rights in work. 

 

Latest updates

News
Carers Week logo
Watch: Helen Walker's message for Carers Week 2026
08 June 26
As Carers Week gets underway, Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, is encouraging everyone to play their part in building carer friendly communities where unpaid carers are recognised, supported and valued.
Press Release
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Nearly half of unpaid carers in Wales feel their role goes unrecognised in their community
08 June 26
Press Release
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Nearly half of unpaid carers feel their role goes unrecognised in their community
08 June 26
Press Release
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Carers UK to responds Health Bill, Second Reading - Monday 1 June 2026
02 June 26

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