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As Hong Kong's population continues to age, the number of working carers is steadily increasing. These individuals shoulder workplace responsibilities while also caring for frail older persons, persons with disabilities, or children with special educational needs, often under considerable pressure. To explore ways to better support this vital segment of the workforce, the Carer Research and Development Centre (CRC) of Saint Francis University (SFU) and the Yang Memorial Methodist Social Service (YMMSS) jointly organised the Carer-Friendly Workplace Seminar and Workshop at SFU, presenting the latest research findings and providing a platform for exchange with corporate representatives on practical experience.
At the event, SFU Vice-President (Research and Development) Professor Lo Tit-wing and YMMSS Director Mr Lam Chun-ming delivered opening remarks, highlighting the importance of the carer issue to Hong Kong society and business development. Both speakers called on employers to work together in fostering a carer-friendly workplace environment, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of human capital.
According to the research findings, 84% of employers expressed support for working carers, with an average support score of 4.14 out of 5, and demonstrated strong awareness of the challenges they face, including time constraints, psychological stress, and physical fatigue. Among the 66 companies that had implemented relevant measures, over 92.4% of respondents reported significant positive outcomes, including higher staff morale, better work-life balance, and stronger team cohesion.
The study also revealed that many companies continue to provide support through informal, non-institutionalised arrangements, with formal subsidies or custodial services rarely available. This underscores the need for strengthened resource allocation and institutional development in supporting carers. Professor Chong Ming-lin emphasised that promoting carer-friendly workplaces requires the joint efforts of businesses, the Government, non-governmental organisations, and academia to develop support models that are flexible, sustainable, and practical.
Through this research release and exchange event, we hope to facilitate collaboration among businesses, the Government, NGOs, and academia, integrating carer-friendly measures into human resources and sustainable development strategies, and collectively creating a win-win workplace culture.