RedArc adds Podplan to its expert panel
RedArc, the nurse-led wellbeing support service included within employee benefits, group and individual insurances, and membership plans, is calling for employers to be aware of the impact that the pandemic is having on those staff who also have caring responsibilities at home. With most aspects of local community support (day centres, church groups, lunch clubs etc.) suspended, the increased burden is being acutely felt by many families whose loved ones, often elderly parents, are now solely reliant on them for company, contact and practical help. This is whilst also trying to balance workplace and parenting responsibilities.
As well as continuing to provide expert medical and emotional support to employees who have caring responsibilities for elderly dependants, RedArc has added Podplan to its curated panel of expert third-party suppliers. This dedicated service, which provides both immediate-needs information and long-term support via a membership subscription, will provide in-depth knowledge about the care landscape for those with elderly dependants. Both services can be accessed at no charge when employees are referred by a RedArc nurse
Christine Husbands, managing director for RedArc, said: “As the pandemic lingers on, we have recorded a marked increase in the number of employed carers who need support for themselves or their loved ones. In particular, many elderly people are suffering from isolation, lack of contact and a lack of human touch which can cause alarming deterioration in their mental and physical health. This is creating a great strain on carers, particularly those who are in work, many of whom are literally at their wits’ end trying to do their best for their family and their employer.”
About Podplan
Podplan Membership is an online subscription service which provides long-term education, information and support for carers seeking to address a range of practical, financial and social issues on behalf of their elderly dependants.
Members gain vital knowledge including:
- an understanding of the assistance available from local authorities and how to trigger it
- guidance in making adaptions to a property to remain independent
- an awareness of financial support so they can ensure eligible benefits are being claimed
- support to find local services such as care providers
- knowledge about specialist resources for conditions such as dementia
- expert support and advice if they need it.
In addition, Podplan Bespoke is an in-depth search service providing immediate support for those needing to find care. This highly personalised resource identifies the costs and availability of local care options together with applicable benefits and other support services. Podplan Bespoke is particularly applicable to individuals who care for a family member diagnosed with a chronic illness or who are facing a sudden health crisis.
Jackie Cleveland, founder and MD, of Podplan said: “From personal experience, I know that researching care options is incredibly time-consuming and complex – especially for people who are working and providing support for family members at the same time. We’re delighted to have been selected by RedArc to provide meaningful and actionable support either to those seeking to prepare for their care responsibilities or for those who need assistance straight away from qualified local care services.”
Christine Husbands, concluded: “Asking an employee about their caring responsibilities can be an uncomfortable conversation for some employers. However, with people living longer and more complex family structures, increasing numbers of employees will also be carers for multi-generations, sick or disabled family members. These carers are usually extremely capable, pragmatic and skilled at multi-tasking but the pandemic is pushing them to their limit which is why employers need to offer carer-specific support. Without it, employers risk increasing levels of absenteeism or even losing staff when their carer-employees struggle to cope.”