Being the change: how a monthly donation can make all the difference

Published: 11 Sep 2023

It’s a belief in a better world and playing a part in making it happen that motivates so many to donate to charity. We consider every one of our donors to be a Changemaker, someone who is helping us reach more parents and carers, delve deeper into inequalities and build on our policy successes to make an even bigger difference to the lives of working families.

One such Changemaker is Carolyn. She became a regular donor this year when she discovered our work resonated with her experience and a desire for an easier journey back into work for all parents and carers.

‘Be the change you want to see in the world’ said Ghandi.

We initially appeared on Carolyn’s radar when she was looking for a return to work in the charity sector and needed a flexible working pattern. Whilst researching jobs she says, ‘I was completely swept up by what Working Families do, and the concept that flexible working is not only beneficial for employees but the organisation as well’. Amplifying this message is key to helping society get behind flexible working, and is aided by our work with employers who can see the fruits of flexible and family-friendly working in increased levels of engagement and productivity.

Carolyn was also struck by our research. Using evidence to make a good case for flexible working not only helps employers get behind change, but also empowers parents and carers to ask for the flexibility they need, as Carolyn explained, ‘the efforts Working Families make to back up common sense with strong research gave me a lot of confidence when interviewing for roles.’

‘I feel passionately about helping those who are coming behind me.’

Deciding to give to a certain charity is often motivated by personal experience. Our work struck a chord with Carolyn’s own experience as a mother who didn’t feel able to return to work after having her daughter: ‘I feel like I am just getting my career back now after 10 years in the wilderness. I just wish I’d known about you then.’ It’s this insight that has led to Carolyn’s dedication to smoothing the path for other parents and carers: ‘I feel passionately about helping those who are coming behind me. Young mums and dads who love their careers and want to maintain them after having children, but also need flexibility to do so.’

Not only is Carolyn making an impact every month with the donation she makes, but she’s also helping by spreading the word: ‘Already I’ve shared your resources and helpline details with many friends, and empowered them to contact you, to push back to employers and not accept what they are told if it doesn’t sit right with them’. By donating and raising awareness, Carolyn makes a huge difference to the lives of working parents and carers across the UK. Carolyn’s passion is evident, and we’re so grateful that she has decided to be the change.

Our Changemakers are the beating heart of Working Families, and we would love to welcome you into this exclusive community. By donating from £3 a month, we’ll make sure you’re always close to the action helping to achieve a better working world for parents and carers. Click here to find out more.