From education to employment

New flexi job search that’s not just for mums

Parents are to receive a helping hand to balance work and life from a brand new jobs scheme launched today (2 Sept) by Amber Rudd.

The Work and Pensions Secretary says her new initiative will make it easier than ever before for parents to find work.

As thousands of kids flood through school gates for the first time this September, many parents – especially mums – will be keen to get their careers back on track.

The new website will use technology to gather more than 50,000 job adverts, all specifically designed with flexi working in mind.

From head chefs and party planners to book keepers and web developers, the roles on offer include both full time and part time jobs.

Work and Pensions Secretary and Minister for Women Amber Rudd said:

The balancing act parents perform isn’t easy. For many, it’s when kids start school that mums – and dads – look to get their careers back on track. 

Still wanting to put your kids first often means work comes second – it has to fit your life and work for your family.

So finding good, flexible work is so important – which is why I’m making it easier.

I want parents to know that I’m backing them, by ensuring that when they want to work, opportunities are available that fit into the world of the breakfast rush, packed lunches and school run.

Chair of the Women’s Business Council, Ms Fiona Dawson said:

As a working mum, I know myself how tricky it can be to balance the many demands faced by millions of women on a daily basis.

That is why at the Women’s Business Council, we have been looking into ways of supporting women who want to balance work with not just raising a family, but the huge variety of seemingly conflicting priorities, and this portal will do just that.

From staggered hours, to flexi-time and remote working, we are trying to help all women find out about the flexible working options available to them, allowing them to balance their priorities in a way which works.

Case study – Vicky’s story

Vicky was out of work for nine-and-a-half years due to mental health issues and looking after her children. A change came when she enrolled in an employment programme called Youth Engineering.

Of returning to work Vicky said:

Getting back into work has improved my mental health dramatically. I thought I wasn’t capable, but apparently I am. I’m going out and doing something for myself whereas before I wasn’t. I’ve got a full time job, my kids are proud of me.

I’m proud of myself and I’ve never said that before.

To hear more from Vicky, visit the My Way In campaign.


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