Beruf und Pflege vereinbaren: So gelingt es

Many employers offer flexible working models that are compatible with caregiving. These include part-time work, home office, flexitime or job sharing. Whether you have a legal entitlement depends on your employment contract and the size of the company.

Part-time employees in Switzerland have the right to reduce their working hours, provided they have been with the company for at least one year and the reduction is operationally feasible. Exceptions apply to smaller companies (fewer than 15 employees). Talk to your supervisor early on -- individual solutions can often be found.

Home office can significantly facilitate work-life balance: you save commuting time and can be with your family member more quickly if needed. Since the pandemic, many employers have become more flexible. Take advantage of this development for your situation.

The Swiss Code of Obligations (OR) grants you the right to up to three days of paid leave in the event of serious illness or accident of a close family member. You can take this short absence without prior notice, and the employer may not refuse it.

For longer-term care situations, there is no legal entitlement to leave or reduction. However, your employer may not discriminate against you because of your caregiving activities. A dismissal solely based on your role as a family caregiver would be unlawful.

Additionally, you can claim caregiving credits with the AHV. These improve your retirement pension. Learn more on our page about family caregiving.

An open conversation with your employer is the first step towards better work-life balance. Here is how to prepare:

• Inform early: Do not wait until the situation escalates. The sooner you let them know, the more room your employer has for solutions.
• Formulate specific requests: Consider what adjustments would help you, e.g. fixed times for care appointments, home office on certain days or a reduction to 80%.
• Bring solution proposals: Show how your work can still be completed despite adjustments. Perhaps tasks can be redistributed or deadlines extended.
• Put it in writing: Agreements should be documented in writing, for your planning security and in case of personnel changes.

You do not have to do everything alone. Make use of available relief services:

• Spitex: Professional nursing staff take over parts of the care and relieve your time burden.
• Compensation for family caregiving: If you are employed through a Spitex organisation, you receive compensation. This can financially offset a reduction in paid work. Check your entitlement with our salary calculator.
• Day care services: Day centres or short-term care give you time for your job.
• Family support: Talk to other family members about a fair division of caregiving duties.

Balancing work and caregiving works best when you know your own limits and accept support. Inform yourself about your rights and make use of the available services. You are entitled to them.