Carer’s Week 2018

This week is Carer’s Week – an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.

Around 6.5 million people in the UK are carers, looking after a parent, partner, child or friend. A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health problem or who needs extra help as they grow older.

Today, postwoman Bavie Hama, who is based at our South West distribution centre, in Bristol, shares her experience as a parent.

‘I joined Royal Mail in 2016 as a part time worker,’ said Bavie. ‘I live with my husband who is a chef. Before I became pregnant with our son I was working a shift from 5-10pm. During my pregnancy, I was aware that it would be difficult for me to look after our child and continue with my contracted working hours, as all of my immediate family members live in the Netherlands.

‘Before I returned to work I started looking for nurseries who could keep children later into the evening, but unfortunately, there weren’t any available in the Bristol area. Due to my husband’s job – which involves him working until 11pm – I really thought about leaving the job. But when I contacted my manager and asked if there was any help I could get from Royal Mail he advised me to complete a flexible working request.

‘Before I came back from my maternity leave I met my manager and submitted my flexible working request form. He explained that my circumstances would be looked upon as exceptional and asked me to come up with a shift plan that would work for both my family and I.

‘I was then offered a split shift on a short-term basis to suit the needs of the business and provide me with a better work-life balance. I work from 12-5pm, which gives me enough time to collect my son from his nursery at 6pm. 

‘I am very thankful. My managers are very understanding and help me to balance my work responsibilities with my family commitments.’ 

Parents & Carers

Please visit the Parent & Carers steering group homepage to read more about the work the group is doing, and access a range of resources available to support you if you are caring for others.

If you would like to share your story, learn more or get involved, please contact us at parents.and.carers@royalmail.com.

Click here to find out more about Carers Week and how you can get involved.