I don’t let my chronic autoimmune condition define me
Hi, I’m Laura, and I’m the Head of Digital Assisted Channels at Admiral.
I oversee our digital assisted channels landscape across the UK and India. Everything from staffing and planning, to risk and compliance, performance management, process design, technical requirements, platform configuration, and social media handling operations.
It’s fast-paced, innovative work, and I genuinely love it - especially the impact we have on our customers.
I work full-time, am a mum to a nine-year-old boy, and I have a chronic autoimmune condition that causes my immune system to be overactive.
I’m grateful that I work somewhere where performance, capability, and potential aren’t defined by health conditions
I’ve worked at Admiral for 18 years, starting as a phone agent in customer service and progressing around the business over time. I’ve been lucky to have amazing opportunities, from becoming a team manager, to training others, to spending time in Bangalore mentoring managers – it’s been a whirlwind!
My illness has been part of my life for a long time. When triggered, it can cause severe facial swelling, intense burning sensations on my skin, joint issues, swollen and closed eyes, and a general feeling of exhaustion.
Over the years, I’ve tried various medications and treatments, and I continue to work with consultants to manage it.
Admiral has been incredibly supportive
I’ve had numerous consultant appointments, tests, and treatments, and I’ve always been fully supported in taking the necessary time.
There have also been moments where after waiting years for a new treatment, the symptoms actually became worse. That was mentally tough and emotionally draining, but I’ve always had people who listen, allow me space to vent, and actively support me - both practically and emotionally. It has made a huge difference.
While my illness is now day-to-day under control, I still experience flare-ups quite regularly, which require steroid treatment and often lead to insomnia. During these periods, I receive so much understanding and support that I have never needed to take a day off sick. I’ve had agreed reasonable adjustments which means I’m able to switch from office days to home working, adjust my shift pattern (for example, working evenings instead of days), and I’m consistently offered additional help if needed.
I believe this flexibility is the reason I can still thrive in my role. Without it, the illness would undoubtedly get the better of me. Instead, I’m able to contribute, grow, and enjoy my job.
My biggest piece of advice to anyone working with a health condition is: don’t hide it. I used to, and I worried people would see it as a weakness. But being open has shown me the opposite - people do understand.
My manager and team have been incredible because I’m honest about when I’m struggling, and that allows them to help make small adjustments when needed. You don’t need to do it alone.
Admiral has allowed me to grow into a role I never imagined, and I’m passionate about showing others that with the right support, you absolutely can succeed.
We’re proud to hold Disability Confident Leader status with an ongoing commitment to support all our colleagues with helpful adjustments and an open and inclusive environment.
We welcome applications from anyone with a disability or a long-term health condition. Take a look at our current vacancies.