dentsu – Finalist 2023, Best for Carers and Eldercare
dentsu have shown dedication to creating a high performing flexible workspace where carers can manage their caring responsibilities at the same time as providing first-rate, consistent support that meets diverse needs and acknowledges the challenges of being a carer.
Carer-friendly policies
The launch of the new Emergency Carers Policy signals a commitment to meeting the needs of employees who provide regular care for someone living with a chronic or critical mental or physical illness. The policy will help identify carers through a time-off logging system, but employees are also identified through an invitation to networking sessions and word of mouth. Carers are offered up to 10 days paid leave annually, to be taken altogether or in blocks, to deal with emergencies or challenging periods.
The availability of short-term flexible working is part of a wider, fluid hybrid working approach. Individuals have autonomy on how, when and where they work which enables them to structure their day in a way that works around their caring responsibilities, as well as works for the business. The availability of Adjustment leave recognises the need that new carers may have to adapt to their changing situation.
Management support
dentsu understand the importance of management training in supporting carers, empowering managers by making them aware of the resources available and how to support team members using the carers policy. Managers are encouraged to reach out to co-leads of the Carers Committee if they have a carer in their team so they can understand what support is available to them. A recorded training session is available for new managers, or for those wanting to revisit, and managers are given access to the 24/7 Talking Talent platform to ask questions and receive advice from a coach.
Meeting diverse needs
The carers network has been utilised in different ways to meet specific needs. For example, parents of children with additional needs have come together and discuss how best to approach Educational Health Care Plans, and a former carer has created a list of legal and logistic items to consider when first becoming a carer that has been shared throughout the network.
There are initiatives in place to facilitate carers self-care, such as the network, a Teams channel where carers can reach out for support and encouragement, and an online hub page that includes all events, policies and tools. Carers can also utilise the allocated three wellbeing days per year and their birthday day is offered as a bonus leave day.
