Male Caregivers: Managing Stereotypes While Building a Career

Currently, caregiving is a predominantly female role, including those who are full-time caregivers and those who manage the dual responsibilities of looking after a loved one and maintaining a career. Alongside the challenging duties that often come with caregiving, men may also face gender stereotypes or may not even acknowledge themselves as caregivers. This article outlines some barriers men might encounter as they balance a career with caregiving duties, and offers guidance on seeking support for male caregivers, whether for yourself or someone you know.

Challenges Faced by Male Carers

Stereotypes and Stigma

Views about men as carers typically originate from traditional ideas on gender roles. Fortunately, as society progresses and we continue to challenge outdated gender norms, it has become clear that both men and women can both make fantastic caregivers, with 42% of unpaid caregivers for family members being men.** Despite these advancements, a significant gender imbalance continues among caregivers, with men still facing stigma.

Balancing Work with Caregiving

Many caregivers find it difficult to juggle work with caregiving, regardless of gender. However, as many male caregivers do not even acknowledge themselves as carers, this can intensify the stress that comes with this juggling act. Additionally, statistics show that there may be even more reluctance to seek support if they are the primary breadwinner, as societal expectations and traditional gender roles can create additional pressure. They may feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness or that they should be able to manage on their own.

Feelings of Isolation

The lack of other visible male caregivers as role models may further add to feelings of isolation and the belief that their struggles are unique. In the workplace, this isolation can be heightened by a lack of understanding from colleagues and employers due to gender stereotypes. Male caregivers may be more hesitant to share their caregiving responsibilities for fear of being judged or perceived as less committed to their careers. This can lead to additional stress and anxiety, as they try to balance their professional and caregiving duties without the support they require.

5 Tips for Accessing Support as a Working Male Carer

1. Build a Network

Across the UK, numerous support networks and initiatives are dedicated to helping male caregivers. These organisations provide a range of services aimed at helping male carers navigate unique challenges. Some of these include:

Action for Family Carers

Men Care Too

Support for Male Carers - Kingston Carers Network

Male Carers - Carers Bucks

Additionally, we direct you to the Carers Trust carer support service. By entering your postcode, you can easily locate local caregiving groups and resources.

2. Challenge Stereotypes

Stereotypes often stem from a lack of understanding or awareness. As a male caregiver, you have the opportunity to challenge these misconceptions and educate others, should you wish. The next time you encounter a stereotype, or someone directs one at you, consider addressing it directly. By calmly and confidently explaining your experiences and the realities of caregiving, you can help dismantle myths and broaden their perspective.

3. Communicate with Your Employer

It’s understandable to feel hesitant about discussing your caregiving responsibilities with your employer. You might worry that they will view it as something that’s an obstacle to your career or hold their own ideas about caregivers, especially male caregivers.

However, initiating this dialogue can lead to opportunities such as flexible working arrangements or adjusted working hours. While your employer isn’t obligated to approve these adjustments, they must provide a legitimate business reason if they choose to decline your request.

4. Look After Yourself

While caregiving can be incredibly rewarding, it often comes with significant emotional challenges. Balancing the demands of looking after your loved ones alongside a career can be overwhelming, and it’s easy for self-care to slip. And the constant juggling act can lead to stress, fatigue, and burnout if not managed properly.

However, prioritising self-care is essential for maintaining your wellbeing as a caregiver, so that you can be the best version of yourself. Although finding time for self-care might seem difficult, it doesn’t have to be an impossible task. In this article, our friends at Helping Hands share

5. Consider Professional Support

Being a caregiver can evoke a wide range of emotions, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Acknowledging these feelings does not diminish your strength or masculinity. In fact, recognising when you need help and seeking professional support is a crucial step towards better managing your responsibilities and maintaining your wellbeing. We redirect you to the Carers Trust site, where you can find further information about counselling for carers.

*More male care workers needed, says providers’ chief (southwarkcarers.org.uk)

** Male Care Professionals: Overcoming traditional gender roles | Home Instead