How Melton woman balances career in the army with being a new mum

Sgt Paige Eagle (34) joined the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) after working as a civilian veterinary nurse.

Paige is raising son, Charlie, with her husband, who serves in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, and they are often apart due to work.

Life as a dual-serving Army family has its challenges, but Paige says the support they’ve received has made all the difference.

One of those benefits was the Army’s maternity package, which she describes as ‘incredible’.

“I had six months full pay, three months statutory pay, and the option for another three months unpaid, plus my full annual leave allowance for the year,” Paige explained.

“My line managers stayed in touch and checked in with me before I returned to work. I didn’t feel forgotten, and I couldn’t fault the process.

“My husband was also given six weeks off because of my c-section.

"That was amazing and really helped us during the first month after Charlie was born.”

She added: “I was on near minimum wage as a veterinary nurse and had to move back in with my parents because I couldn’t afford to live on my own,” she said.

“The pay and work-life balance in the Army were a big draw for me.

"I’d never get the benefits I do now if I’d stayed in a civilian role.”

Paige was brought up in a military family, travelling to live in bases around the world, and her ‘inspiration’ for joining up herself was her dad, who served in the The Adjutant General's Corps.

With her grandad and great grandad, also serving, it was no surprise when she decided to follow suit.

“Being a couple in the Army has its ups and downs,” added Paige.

“We’re apart right now, and it’s hard when we’re both in deployable regiments.

"But we make it work, and both our regiments are really supportive.

"They understand our childcare needs and always help if they can.

"Being away from my son so early in his life is tough, but I’ve been able to manage it with help and flexibility from the Army.”