Working for the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel: Lydia Clapinska
Updated 7 July 2023
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I joined the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel (“OPC”) in 2008.
In a world where the pace of change seems relentless I am sometimes asked what has kept me in the same role for so long? The answer is simple: I love this job. The work is endlessly fascinating and challenging and the support of my colleagues is unwavering.
The huge variety of work – often directly connected with momentous global and political challenges such as Brexit, COVID-19 and frequent changes in administration - ensures that the appeal of the job never wanes.
Since joining OPC I have had three children. I was promoted to my current role as a Deputy Director while on maternity leave for the third time. I attended the interview on a sweltering hot day with my 12-week-old baby who was looked after by a kindly colleague while I faced the interview panel.
OPC sits within the Cabinet Office, so we are able to be part of the large number of Cabinet Office staff networks, clubs and societies. In 2012 I joined a small team which relaunched the Cabinet Office women’s network as the gender equality network (as gender equality is an issue that affects all staff). Because of my experiences as a working parent, I took the lead on issues relating to parents.
There was such interest from other staff that I took the plunge and set up the parental support network, which promotes a family-friendly culture in Cabinet Office.
Our network really came into its own during lockdown, when we were able to provide support to large numbers of parents who faced real challenges juggling their work with childcare and home-schooling.
It hasn’t always been easy to find time for network activities with such a busy day job, but it is really good to know that the staff networks at Cabinet Office are thriving. There is plenty of scope, for those with a passion to pursue issues they care about, to drive forward positive change for colleagues.
At OPC, I also helped to set up a buddying scheme for those on maternity, shared parental or adoption leave and I have supported many colleagues through this scheme over the years. I am committed to building a more diverse and inclusive workplace.
I have worked part-time for many years in a number of different work patterns that have evolved to fit with my changing childcare arrangements. I have recently settled on a pattern that optimises my time in the office working face-to-face with my colleagues, whilst also ensuring I am no stranger to the school gates.
I feel very fortunate to have a fulfilling and stimulating legal career at the heart of government where I continue to learn and develop every day surrounded by inspiring and supportive colleagues.