Navigating my fertility journey at Virgin Media O2

I’m a Talent Acquisition Partner at Virgin Media O2, and I’ve been part of the business for ten years. But I wanted to do something I’ve never done before. Share my personal experience about why inclusion and how we show up for one another matters to me.

Being with Virgin Media O2 for a decade means I’ve experienced different stages of life alongside my career. I’ve been encouraged to bring my whole self to work, not just the parts that fit neatly into a job description. That sense of trust and flexibility became incredibly important when I began my fertility journey.

The emotional and practical realities of fertility treatment

Like many people in same sex relationships who want to start a family, fertility treatment wasn’t a straightforward decision or process. There were emotional highs and lows, practical (and financial) considerations. That financial and emotional burden can feel isolating and all-consuming.

What made a difference for me was how Virgin Media O2 responded. I was met with understanding, flexibility, and genuine care. My manager gave me time to attend appointments and space to be honest about how I was feeling. Fertility treatment can take an emotional and physical toll. It was a relief to know I didn’t have to explain or justify anything. Even simple things like knowing I had 24/7 access to our company healthcare provider, should I need it, helped make what was sometimes a difficult period a bit easier. I felt heard and supported, and that sense of belonging mattered more than I can easily put into words.

Fertility can often feel like a less “talked about” subject when it’s something you’re struggling with, especially at work. For many people in same-sex relationships it can feel invisible, wrapped up in uncertainty and assumptions.

Living our company values

Our values at Virgin Media O2 are Brave, Real and Together, and for me they really resonated during this period. Having open and honest conversations about topics that might be unfamiliar, sensitive or emotive. Listening to lived experiences without judgment or defensiveness. Standing alongside colleagues, not just in moments of celebration, but in moments of vulnerability too.

When organisations support people through life events like fertility treatment, they send a powerful message, “you belong here, exactly as you are”. That’s how trust is built, and it’s how you ensure everybody thrives. As we continue to learn and grow as an organisation, partnerships like our one with mygwork, for me, show that inclusion is about actions and how we show up for people, providing a place where everyone can feel, safe, valued, and proud of who they are.

If my story resonates with you, I encourage you to learn more about Virgin Media O2, our people, our values, and the careers we offer. Inclusion is a journey we’re committed to, and we’re always learning.