Sage Carers Network: A Community Built on Compassion

For many, the journey into a caring role is sudden and overwhelming. For Kate Bonner, Data Collaboration Director at Sage, it was her husband's unexpected need for care that opened her eyes to a hidden truth: many people were silently navigating the same path.

Kate Bonner and family

"I didn’t expect to become his carer, and it felt like a baptism by fire," Kate shared. About six months in, she sent an email to 100 colleagues explaining her situation. The response was immediate and profound. "That email led to five people reaching out to say, ‘I’m a carer too, but I’ve never told anyone.’ That moment really hit me; people were suffering in silence."

That email sparked a movement. What began as an informal support group; a space to laugh on good days and lean on each other on tough ones grew into the official Carers Network at Sage. The need was clear; an internal survey revealed that 26% of UK colleagues identified as carers.

Building a Supportive Space

Michael Tulip and family

Michael Tulip, Senior IT Service Operations Lead, remembers the turning point for him. "I’d been caring alone, not knowing where to turn," he said. "Then I saw Kate’s message and realised I wasn’t alone. That’s what triggered me to get involved. I wanted to help others feel seen and supported."

The network launched drop-in clinics, creating a safe space for colleagues to talk, vent, and simply be heard. These sessions have become a vital resource, offering one-on-one support, signposting resources, and a listening ear.

Rachael Reynolds and family

Rachael Reynolds, Governance and Compliance Senior Analyst, highlights the network's inclusive nature. "What’s beautiful is how naturally the carers and family networks have merged," she explained. "There’s so much intersectionality; whether you’re caring for a parent, a friend, or chosen family. We’ve hosted sessions on everything from family cooking to cybersecurity for older relatives."

Policy, Progress & Purpose

The network's impact goes beyond community building. They've drafted the first carers policy at Sage, which offers up to two weeks of paid leave and unlimited unpaid leave. While it's a significant first step, the team is already pushing for more. "Caring often comes with financial strain, and we’re lobbying to improve paid provisions," Kate explained. The network has also collaborated with the Ability Network to advocate for inclusive policies that support neurodiverse families.

At its core, the network’s purpose is simple: "no one should feel alone." The group has supported colleagues through some of life's most challenging moments, including terminal illness, bereavement, and navigating complex benefits systems.

Allyship & Awareness

The work of the Carers Network is for everyone. As Kate puts it, she often thinks about a quote from Rosalynn Carter: "There are only four kinds of people in the world, those who have been carers, those who are carers, those who will be carers, and those who will need care."

This belief drives the network to encourage colleagues to share their stories and to educate line managers on leading with empathy. The team is also challenging Sage to move beyond "ticking boxes" and to create processes that genuinely support people with diverse needs.

Looking Ahead

This community was built from the ground up by colleagues who care deeply. "No one told us to do it, we just care deeply," Rachael said. "And that’s what makes it powerful. We’re building something that’s real, inclusive, and supportive. It’s not just about policies; it’s about people."

Michael agrees, his passion for the work evident. "We’re beaming every time we talk about this. We live and breathe it. We want to make Sage a better place for everyone - and we’re just getting started!"