Thriving, Not Just Surviving: How The Supportive Workplace At Thales Empowers Carers

For working carers, the daily juggle of professional responsibilities and personal commitments can feel like a constant battle. The fear that one world will inevitably compromise the other is a heavy burden. But what if your workplace didn't just accommodate your life as a carer, but actively empowered you to excel in both roles? Laura Nielsen’s story at Thales UK shows this isn't just a possibility; it's a reality.

As a Strategic HR Business Partner and Neuro-inclusion Lead, Laura is a driven professional. She is also a dedicated mother and carer for her two neurodivergent children, whose needs span autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Her journey has been one of immense challenges, from sleep deprivation to legal fights for her children's education, but it is also a powerful story of resilience, growth, and the profound impact of a truly supportive employer.

The Reality of a Working Carer

Laura’s life outside of work is a whirlwind of appointments, school meetings, and constant advocacy. The early days were particularly tough. "It was so lonely and isolating," she recalls, describing the lack of understanding from others that often left her feeling excluded. This emotional toll was compounded by the physical challenge of severe sleep deprivation, a common issue for parents of children with autism and ADHD.

Navigating the educational system proved to be one of her biggest battles. To secure the specialist support her children needed, Laura had to fight two legal tribunals. It's a journey that could easily have derailed a career, but Laura found the strength to persevere, thanks in large part to the supportive environment at Thales.

How Does Thales Make a Difference?

The support Laura receives at Thales is a lifeline that enables her to continue her career without sacrificing her family's needs.

• Managerial Trust: The foundation of this support is her manager’s understanding and trust. By creating a safe space for open communication, her manager gives her the flexibility she needs to manage her home life, confident that her professional performance will not suffer.
• Flexible Working: A formal flexible working arrangement allows Laura to work from home has been critical.
• Formal Policies in Action: The introduction of the Carer's Passport and Carer's Policy at Thales transformed an informal understanding into a structured, supportive conversation. Laura describes this as an emotional but invaluable process that strengthened her professional relationship with her manager.

Wisdom for Carers and Managers

Drawing from her experience, Laura offers heartfelt advice for others walking a similar path.

For Fellow Carers:

"Talk to people," she urges. "Especially your manager." Connecting with support networks, like the one at Thales for parents of neurodivergent children, is crucial. She also encourages those further along in their journey to reach back and help others who are just starting out.

For People Managers:

Laura’s message is simple but powerful: be curious, not judgemental. Fostering a culture of trust and safety allows team members to be open about their lives. This dialogue, she explains, is not just beneficial for the employee but for the entire team and the company, ensuring support is there when it's needed most.

A Journey of Personal Growth

While the challenges have been immense, Laura reflects that the most profound outcome of her journey has been her own personal growth. The experience has not only made her a better parent but a "better human all around." In a surprising turn, recognising her daughter's experiences led Laura to seek and receive her own autism diagnosis, deepening her self-awareness and understanding.

For jobseekers who are carers, Laura Nielsen's story is a testament to the fact that you don't have to choose between your career and your family. With the right employer, one that leads with trust, flexibility, and genuine support like Thales, it is possible to thrive in every aspect of your life.

Watch Laura's interview in full: 

Read more about Thales' Parent and Carer Network