Carers and working families to benefit from Work and Families Bill

Carers of adults will be given the right to request flexible working for the first time, it was announced yesterday.

The measures, outlined in the Work and Families Bill which received Royal Assent, are the government’s recognition of the difficulties that carers face trying to juggle caring responsibilities with work.

Thousands of working parents will also benefit from new rights to more pay,  maternity and paternity leave.

Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling said: “Thousands of working families and carers are set to benefit from the legislation.

“The government recognises the difficulties many face in trying to juggle work and family life and the new rights will help make it easier for people across the country,” he added.

Working mothers will be entitled to nine months statutory maternity leave. There are also plans to extend paternity leave.