Charlie Beswick is mum to 20-year-old twins, Oliver and Harry, who was born with a rare craniofacial syndrome and is autistic. She is the author of the best-selling memoir Our Altered Life, a raw and powerful account of navigating a path she never anticipated.
Charlie collaborates with both national and international organisations committed to supporting the carers within their workforce. Through her consultancy, she champions inclusive workplace practices that recognise and retain employee carers. Her family’s story has been featured widely in national press and international media including TV.
Charlie is also the founder of Our Altered Lives CIC, a not-for-profit organisation that supports the emotional wellbeing of parents of children with SEND. With over 20 years of teaching experience across both primary and secondary education, she brings warmth, insight, and lived expertise to every conversation, and she’s also a big fan of gin and cheese.
At the conference, Charlie will deliver the workshop: Care happens: Why employers must design for sudden and gradual caring responsibilities.
Workshop overview: The session will provide education around Carer reasons, statistics, disclosure issues, and share practical ways to create a safe and supportive culture