My husband and I wanted to take an extended period of time off following our wedding to fulfil a long-held dream of travelling together. We were extremely keen to do this at some point before starting a family but neither of us wanted to quit our jobs to do it as we really liked where we worked.

Osborne Clarke were extremely supportive of the request and granted me four months unpaid extended leave. The firm's approach to the request is reflective of what seems to be its attitude to flexible working generally; considering the merits of each request on an individual basis as to what works for that employee and team.

My clients were quite jealous rather than anything else, but the timing did coincide well with my deal flow which was helpful. Each person's needs are different, but what this time off has allowed me to do is stay in a job I enjoy, feel valued and recognised in that job, while being able to pursue my interests.

Lucy Daniels, Senior Associate, Banking