Many of our staff and volunteers are carers, so we want to care for them

On 13 October 2026, HealthBus committed to becoming a Carer Friendly Employer, championed by Forward Carers, recognising the caring responsibilities that many colleagues carry beyond their working lives.

Rachel Close, Programme Manager at Forward Carers, joined the HealthBus team for a morning training session exploring what it means to be an unpaid carer and how employers can offer meaningful support.

For those working in healthcare, caring does not always end when the working day finishes. Many also support loved ones, family members, friends or neighbours who could not manage without their help.

HealthBus is committed to supporting its staff and volunteers with information, practical tools and signposting, helping people feel recognised, understood and confident to discuss their caring responsibilities. This commitment acknowledges the enormous contribution unpaid carers make to our communities, economy and workforce.

Forward Carers is an award-winning, not-for-profit Community Interest Company working to create Carer Friendly Communities across the country. Through workplace training, advice, resources and its Carer Friendly Employer Commitment Mark, it helps organisations better understand and support unpaid carers.

Our thanks to Rachel for an insightful morning and for helping us strengthen a workplace culture where those who care for others feel supported too.

Visit forwardcarers.org.uk.