I’m a single mum who works full time. I’m not a young mum though.
I returned to work in 2010. In the first year I had one sneery “oh you’re a single mum” comment to my face but not from someone whose opinion was worth having.
My company didn’t ask if I was a parent before employing me and was generally supportive when my son was ill.
The following company (large mobile phone co. ) was not supportive at all. My current employer- small IT co – is very supportive.
But I work full time, I haven’t asked for flexible working and I do my best to make school holidays as seamless as possible.
I take a half day holiday if I go to sports day and I don’t discuss my family situation at work. Thankfully both I and my son are healthy, I have a job with a very short commute and there is a good after-school club so I mostly manage without any help. I am lucky.
If anyone makes a comment, I find a hard stare works or if absolutely necessary, a breezy “gosh, how very regressive” does the trick.
Has someone given you a hard time?