PwC Ireland has signed up to the ‘Caring Employers’ Programme to support employees who have caring responsibilities.

PwC has today announced a new partnership with national charity Family Carers Ireland, to provide a bespoke support programme for colleagues in the firm who have caring responsibilities. 

Family Carers Ireland has developed the programme, called ‘Caring Employers’,  to provide guidance and assistance for companies to support those who are balancing their career with caring commitments at home. 

As members of the programme, PwC is providing access to the full suite of supports and resources it offers to colleagues who wish to use it.    

There are over 500,000 family carers in Ireland, with one in nine people in Ireland’s workforce juggling work while supporting  a family member with additional needs. 

These caring requirements can take many forms, including caring for a child, a parent, relative or a friend.

Coupled with the demands of working life, this can have a significant impact on a person’s performance at work and overall wellbeing. 

Where this occurs, it is hugely important to ensure that those balancing work and care , are recognised, supported and accommodated in their professional careers.

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy, Family Carers Ireland, commented: “Family Carers Ireland’s ‘Caring Employers’ programme highlights the importance of ensuring that carers feel included, valued and cared for within their own work environments. 

“We are delighted that PwC, as a major employer in Ireland, has joined the programme and is enhancing awareness of those juggling work and care, and introducing additional carer-friendly supports to their people.  

Doone O’Doherty, People Partner, PwC Ireland, said: “We are proud to announce this new collaboration with Family Carers Ireland as it underpins PwC's Inclusion First Strategy and commitment to building a workplace where everyone feels like they belong.

“We recognise that we have many family carers in PwC and it is hugely important to us that we continue to build on the supports we offer to our people and that an enhanced awareness is placed on the important role that family carers play.

“The introduction of the ‘Caring Employers’ programme in PwC is a great way to show that we care for our people and that we are committed to supporting them across the moments that matter.” 

Photo: Doone O'Doherty, People Partner, PwC Ireland;  Catherine Cox, Head of Communications & Policy, Family Carers Ireland; Enda McDonagh, Managing Partner, PwC Ireland and Sue O'Grady, Marketing Manager, Family Carers Ireland