A unique upbringing - my military family

What’s your connection to the forces?

I was what’s known (affectionately) as an Army Brat. I’m not sure at what age you graduate to simply “having been a military child” but that’s who I am now.

Growing up as a military child is a unique experience that shapes not only who you are but also the strengths you carry into adulthood and professional life. My upbringing was patterned with the realities of military service.

For 24 years, my Dad served in the British Army, often deployed or on exercises for most of the year. My Mama held everything down at home, effectively parenting on her own for much of the year, and kept us all going.

It wasn't always an easy way to grow up, but it was an incredible way to live.

For a long time, I thought the most important thing about my childhood was the things growing up that way taught me about myself. Now, I’m more conscious of what it taught me about the people around me and how to serve a wider community.

How does your experience show up in your work?

It shows up most obviously in my role as Events + Comms Lead for our Forces Supporters Network. I spend time with people who understand my experience. Sometimes they were the parent in service, sometimes they’re the partner, sometimes they’re the child. It’s a group of people who understand one another, and I can be myself with them.

One of my favourite things is sharing stories. I’m in a place of real privilege as the collector and sharer of stories – in our newsletter, articles, and Inclusion Podcast. Sometimes I’m the first person to hear someone share their experience. It’s never stopped feeling special.

I’m careful to steward these stories thoughtfully. By sharing people’s lives and experiences we raise awareness, bring people together, and help colleagues around the business understand what our forces family brings to the business and what they need from us to succeed. That’s awesome.