Capital Breakfast host Siân Welby has spoken candidly about the guilt she feels as a working mother while grappling with her father Ian's dementia, diagnosed in 2020. The 39-year-old, whose daughter Ruby turns two next month, discussed her family struggles at the King's Trust Celebration in London.
Welby, who also presents on This Morning, said she cannot wish for her old dad back and instead embraces the person he is now. 'I can't wish for my old dad back. I've got the one I've got now, so I embrace who he is and just try to make the best memories possible,' she explained. 'I always try to look at the bright side because I still have him.'
The broadcaster admitted that juggling motherhood, early starts, and her father's condition is challenging, but she refuses to dwell on negativity. 'Other people lose their parents much younger, so I try to appreciate the time we do have while juggling being a mum and trying to be good at my job too,' she added.
Welby also addressed the universal guilt many parents feel, saying: 'You can never win because whatever you choose, whether you stay at home or go to work, there'll always be guilt somewhere. You'll always think, 'Should I be doing this instead?' I don't think any of us give ourselves enough credit.'
The radio host, who is engaged to producer Jake Beckett, described the difficulty of balancing two busy careers. 'It is hard, I'm not going to lie. Jake is back at work now, and you're constantly trying to figure out who's doing what,' she said, noting that bedtime and bath time can be the most stressful part of the day.
