An Inverclyde organisation is one of the first in the area to be recognised for supporting carers in the workplace

CVS Inverclyde has been awarded Carer Positive Engaged accreditation.

This is a Scottish Government scheme operated by Carers Scotland to make life better for those who look after someone.

CVS chief executive Ian Bruce said:"As caring becomes part of an increasing number of people’s everyday lives, it is important that employers such as ourselves do what we can to support them.

“Carers already contribute hugely to our society with a significant proportion making up our working population.

"We have been able to show that our systems and processes have been developed to support carers and help them balance work with their caring responsibilities, including being a flexible working employer."

Mr Bruce now wants to encourage other local businesses and employers to follow suit.

Sue McLintock, manager of the Carer Positive Awards for Carers Scotland said: “Caring can impact on people across the whole working age spectrum, although it tends to hit a peak at an age when many employees will have gained valuable skills and experience.

“Losing carers from the workforce is not only damaging to individuals and their families, but also damaging to employers and the wider economy.

"It is not only about good employment practice.

"Evidence shows that supportive practices deliver real benefits to employers, helping them attract and retain staff, increasing productivity and improving service delivery, while reducing stress and sickness absence, positively impacting on staff morale and leading to cost savings.

“Our awards initiative is helping to raise awareness of this and we are delighted to welcome CVS Inverclyde as a Carer Positive Engaged employer.”

Other local Carer Positive Engaged employers include Inverclyde Carers' Centre, the council, Inverclyde Community Development Trust and West College Scotland.