Issue - meetings

Steve Davies – Head of Human Resources, Haringey Council.

To hear what Haringey Council is doing to support employees who are carers.

Steve Davies – Head of Human Resources

Haringey Council does not specifically target carers as part of the workforce.

42% of the workforce works less than full-time hours.

Carers are mentioned in the flexible working policy.

Discussion around the need for better signposting for employees who are carers for example information on carers centres should be available on HARINET so that they can get advice and support.

Steve Davies to look into the implications of the Equalities Act 2009 for carers in relation to employment and identification.

Noted that there was a survey conducted on pay slips approximately 2 years ago which aimed to identify carers in Haringey.  Barbara Nicholls will look into finding the data from this survey. 

It is left to the Managers discretion as to whether to allow someone to work flexibly e.g. to work from home.  Managers have to take into account the needs of the service when receiving these requests.  Query as to how this is managed centrally in order to ensure that there is consistency and fairness in the application of the policies.  Query as to how managers are made aware of the needs of carers and how awareness is kept up.  Are there spot checks?

Noted that the BME carers centre has received a referral from a Manager within the Council for a member of staff.

Carers are entitled to specific leave in relation to their caring duties e.g.