Successful Caring Arrangements for Employed Caregivers

Abstract

The Social Policy Research Centre was commissioned by the Department of Health and Family Services to investigate strategies and interventions designed to assist caregivers to obtain or remain in employment. This report presents the results of this exploratory research.

The research consisted of two components: a literature review and a small scale qualitative study. Selected literature from Australia and overseas on caregiving and employment was reviewed. We then explored the issues raised in the literature further in a series of focus groups with employed and job-seeking caregivers living in New South Wales. The focus groups examined how family networks, workplace conditions and service interventions affect the ability of caregivers to work and provide care.