Thousands of unpaid carers in Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock could be set to benefit from the introduction of new legislation.
The Carers Leave Act 2023 came into force on Saturday, April 6, giving people who provide care to a family member, friend or relative the right to up to five days of unpaid leave from work to fulfil their caring responsibilities.
Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP Allan Dorans gave his backing to the legislation as it passed through Parliament, and says he is delighted that thousands of unpaid carers in his constituency will now have access to these new workplace rights.
Mr Dorans has previously spoken of the importance of the role played by unpaid carers across his constituency.
He said: "Carers in Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock and across the UK, provide an invaluable, and often unseen service for those in most need in our communities, often without regards to their own wellbeing.
"The Carers Act provide long overdue unpaid leave of up to five days to help carers balance their work commitments and their unpaid caring responsibilities.
"I welcome and fully support this legislation and thank carers everywhere, for all that they do."
According to research from Carers UK, up to 2.3 million employees across Great Britain could benefit, while over 1 million employers will have to implement this right for their workforce.
Carers UK estimates that, on average, 600 people a day have to give up work in order to care for older, ill or disabled relatives and friends due to a lack of support and flexibility in the workplace.
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