New caregivers plan launches

Alice Wong, minister of state (seniors), has announced the launch of the Canadian Employers for Caregivers Plan (CECP).

She made the statement at the first meeting of the newly established Employer Panel for Caregivers.

Both the plan and panel were created because Economic Action Plan 2014 included a commitment to work with employers on finding cost-effective workplace practices to help informal caregivers also participate in the labour market.

Read: Caregivers draining their retirement funds

As a result, the Canadian Employers for Caregivers Plan makes way for the establishment of the Employer Panel for Caregivers, as well as for the development of business cases analyzing the cost-benefit of existing various workplace supports and the exploration of mechanisms for sustained employer engagement.

The plan was needed since many employed Canadians also provide informal care for their aging parents, friends or spouses. This means their work hours must be flexible in case of health emergencies.

Read: Disability in the workplace

“There are currently 6.1 million employed Canadians who are providing care to a family member or friend,” says Wong. “Our government will work with employers through the Canadian Employers for Caregivers Plan to help identify cost-effective solutions to support employed caregivers, as well as to help them achieve a better balance of work and caring responsibilities.”

Read: How to discuss PoA for personal care

Staff

The staff of Advisor.ca have been covering news for financial advisors since 1998.