Support for the “sandwich generation”
The Federal Government aims to make caring for relatives more attractive.
It’s not always easy finding enough time for your family, your job and leisure too. And if a family member falls ill and needs care that presents an additional challenge. Now the Federal Government is aiming to make caring for relatives more attractive. The Cabinet has decided on a corresponding draft law. “With it we want to create conditions under which the situation of the sandwich generation is given full consideration. This generation works and has children – and would also like to be able to take care of relatives in need,” says Manuela Schwesig, Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth. Three major changes are to come into effect from 2015. Employees will be able to take ten days of leave to care for a relative and receive 90% of their net salary. Anyone who stops working for six months should also qualify for an interest-free loan. Furthermore, the circle of beneficiaries is being widened to include, among others, unmarried same-sex partners.
