Sandwich carers: caring for children and ageing parents
Part of Working carers
By CareCircle Family editorial team · Published 2026-09-26 · Last reviewed 2026-09-26 · 5 min read
If you support both children and an ageing parent, make the competing commitments visible, share practical jobs where possible and ask about formal support. A plan should fit your real week, not an ideal one.
Map the week
Put school, work, visits and appointments on one calendar. Mark tasks that only you can do separately from errands someone else could handle.
Protect some capacity
Arrange backup for a missed visit, ask about a carer's assessment and talk to your employer about relevant workplace arrangements.
A practical checklist
- List fixed commitments and flexible jobs
- Agree backup contacts
- Share non-visit tasks with family
- Check workplace and local carer support
Official guidance and further reading
Check these organisations for the latest rules and guidance for your location.
Frequently asked questions
- Am I a carer if I also work and have children?
- Unpaid caring takes many forms. A local carer's service or council can explain available support without you having to adopt a particular label first.
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