Carer or Career? – The support is there for both at Bell Ingram

By Senior Associate, Andrew Fuller

I don’t think anyone ever truly plans to become an unpaid carer. It’s not something you anticipate or prepare for – it’s something that happens quietly, gradually, and out of necessity. For my wife and me, it began when we moved back into our family home on the Isle of Mull. Initially, it was just to lend a helping hand to my parents. But over time, that helping hand evolved into what is now, a significant caring role.

My mother has sadly passed away, and now we are the primary live-in carers for my father, who lives with multiple medical conditions, including Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a cruel, progressive illness that slowly robs a person of their mobility, independence, and, at times, their dignity. My father requires assistance from the moment he wakes until the moment we help him into bed at night. Each week brings new challenges—some expected, many not—and the emotional effect of watching a loved one decline is something that’s hard to put into words.

The responsibilities have grown steadily over the years. What initially began as occasional support has evolved into live-in care, involving complex hygiene routines, hospital visits, medication management, and navigating the logistics of living in a remote island cottage with limited accessibility. There are moments of joy, of course – we’ve learned to laugh about things, and I’ve loved having time to learn more about dad’s work life, but there’s also exhaustion, constant worry, and the quiet grief of watching someone you love struggle.

Throughout this journey, my employer – Bell Ingram, has been extremely supportive. They’ve not only acknowledged the unique pressures faced by carers within the company but have actively taken steps to help. One of the initiatives has been an internal Carer Support Group which, I’ll admit, I was hesitant to join at first. Opening up to colleagues about the emotional weight of caring felt daunting. For me, being at work often feels like the calm in my life—a place of structure and predictability.

But joining the group was transformative. I found myself surrounded by colleagues who understood and who were facing similar struggles. For me, it was eye-opening to learn that caring roles span generations, with some of my colleagues supporting elderly parents, and others caring for young children with complex needs. The group, initiated and supported by our HR Manager, Kirsty Watson,  instantly became a place of shared understanding, where we can speak freely and support one another without judgment. We also find it useful to share contact details for external support, useful technology and also some of the tips that we’ve picked up during our caring responsibilities. 

Bell Ingram has also introduced additional leave for carers, which has been invaluable. Hospital appointments, especially for me here on Mull, are logistically challenging. They involve coordinating wheelchair accessible transport, preparing my father to venture outdoors, and being present, (at his request), during his consultations to ensure we understand any changes in treatment or medication. Having the flexibility to take time off for these essential tasks has made a world of difference—not just practically, but emotionally.

I’m fortunate that my role also allows for some flexibility in scheduling. I often make up time during evenings or weekends, which often aligns well with clients who have weekday commitments. This adaptability has enabled me to maintain my professional responsibilities while continuing to provide the care my father needs.

For anyone new joining Bell Ingram who may also be juggling caring responsibilities, I want to offer reassurance: you are not alone, and you are not invisible. The company has created a culture where carers are seen, supported, and valued. From flexible working arrangements to dedicated support groups and additional leave, the infrastructure is there to help you succeed both professionally and personally. It’s a rare and deeply appreciated support network— and one that continues to make a real difference to me.

For more information on what it’s like to work at Bell Ingram click here.