A quarter of Financial Planners and insurance professionals were unsure whether their employer offers them any support if they need to look after loved ones, according to a survey of Chartered Insurance Institute and Personal Finance Society members.

One in ten surveyed said their employer had failed to offer help to colleagues who were struggling to juggle their paid work with looking after loved ones.

Keith Richards, chief membership officer of the CII and CEO of the Personal Finance Society, said the Coronavirus pandemic has shown how important it is for firms to understand the circumstances staff are grappling with if they are to continue operating and retain talented employees.

He said: “In 2021 everyone who finds themselves juggling work with caring responsibilities has the right to request flexible working arrangements to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities. While it is great to see the majority are aware of their right to flexible working, our survey shows some insurance and personal finance employers need to do more to make sure their employees are aware of options such as their right to take time off in an emergency, working compressed hours, job sharing or work from home.

“The pandemic has shown why supporting carers isn’t just the right thing to do but it is good for business too.”