Caring through every chapter

How our colleague networks and support at Co‑op helped Pauline find balance whilst caring for her child and her parents. 

I joined PACT (our Parents and Carers Together colleague network) around 10 years ago when I first became a mum and was navigating the return to work alongside the whirlwind that is having a small child.  

A few years later, it became clear my parents could no longer live independently. My dad was diagnosed with dementia and we made the decision to move my parents to live next door to us. Without knowing the term at the time, I had become a sandwich carer - caring for both my child and my parents at the same time. 

What stands out from that period is how supported I felt at Co‑op. My line manager, colleagues and leadership gave me the time and flexibility I needed to navigate a huge change in my family life. That understanding and trust made a difficult time feel manageable, and it’s something I’ll always be grateful for. 

When everything changed overnight 

In 2023, my world changed again when my daughter had a serious horse-riding accident and suffered a traumatic brain injury. Nothing prepares you for being told your child might not survive the night, or that they may never walk or talk again. 

During that time, what Co‑op gave me was space – space to be fully present, to focus on my daughter, and to put everything I had into supporting her recovery. I never felt pressured to return to work, that combined with the support from the team checking in how we were getting on gave me the psychological safety I needed. While other parents around me in the ICU were being pressured to come back to work, that was never my experience. 

I’m incredibly proud to say my daughter has defied expectations. Her recovery is ongoing, but she can walk, run, cartwheel and chat away happily – something I once didn’t know would be possible. 

Finding support through PACT 

When I returned to work, I started attending PACT sessions more regularly, and they’ve been invaluable. The network creates a safe space to talk honestly, share advice, listen, and support one another. Being able to share openly with other colleagues who also have caring responsibilities – whether for children, parents or both – reminds you that you’re not alone. 

Why sharing matters 

Caring doesn’t always fit neatly into one label or one awareness week. For me, sharing my story is about opening up honest conversations and helping others feel less alone. When we talk about caring openly, we build a workplace where people can truly be themselves – and that’s something Co‑op has consistently shown me in action. 

Support available 

If you’re balancing caring responsibilities, you don’t have to do it alone. Support available at Co‑op includes: 

• PACT (Parents and Carers Together) – a colleague network offering peer support, shared experiences and practical guidance 

• Co‑op Wellbeing Hub – information, tools and support to help you look after your mental, physical and emotional wellbeing 

• Care Concierge – expert guidance to help colleagues understand care options for children, parents or other dependants 

Pauline Wilton, Retail Safety Manager