22/05/2025

ECONOMY MINISTER PUBLISHES A BRIEFING PAPER: INTRODUCING CARERS LEAVE IN NORTHERN IRELAND (14 May 2025)

What’s Happening?

The Economy Minister has published a Briefing Paper from Ulster University’s Economic Policy Centre, looking at the potential costs of introducing paid carers leave in Northern Ireland.

Why Does This Matter for Employers?

Northern Ireland has around 220,000 unpaid carers, with 180,000 of them in the workforce.

Many employees juggle work and caring responsibilities for dependents with long-term care needs. The Good Jobs Bill will introduce carers leave, allowing eligible employees up to five days of unpaid leave (pro rata) within a 12-month period. This leave can be taken in half-day or full-day increments or as one block.

Will It Be Paid?

Currenlty when introduced carers leave will be unpaid. However the Economy Minister has committed to making it paid when the time is right.

This Briefing Paper does not decide whether paid leave will be introduced or who would cover the cost (government, employers, or taxpayers).

Instead, it estimates the cost under different payment models, including:

• Full wage (based on median weekly earnings).
• Statutory Paternity Rate (£187.18 per week).
• National Living Wage (£12.21 per hour).
• Statutory Sick Pay Rate (£118.75 per week).

What Are the Cost Estimates?

The analysis presents two scenarios:

• Assumed uptake model: Estimated costs range from £6.2M to £49.7M.
• 100% uptake model: Costs could range from £16.5M to £75.3M.

It recognises that factors like workplace flexibility could affect uptake rates.

What Can Employers Do?

The report encourages employers to engage with carer organisations and implement carer-friendly policies, including:

• Raising awareness of unpaid caring and support options.
• Training line managers to recognise and assist carers.
• Partnering with the government to develop return-to-work programs for carers.

Wider Workforce Impact

Labour market statistics show that economic inactivity (people of working age who are not employed or in education) is rising. This remains a concern for the Department for the Economy, making support for carers even more relevant.

What’s Next?

The report recommends further research and a call for evidence to refine policy decisions around pay rates, eligibility, and funding. We will keep Members updated of any developments on this.