The Women’s Work Lab, an innovative training program in the UK, has transformed the lives of dozens of mothers. This free program, specifically designed for mothers who wish to return to the job market after having children, offers a completely novel approach to identifying women’s capabilities.
Sarah, one of the participating mothers, has a compelling story: “After my divorce, I had completely lost myself. I saw seven years of being a homemaker not as an experience, but as an obstacle to employment.” However, participating in this program completely changed her perspective.
Through practical workshops, the Women’s Work Lab teaches mothers how to turn seemingly simple home management skills into professional strengths. Budget planning, time management, multi-tasking coordination, conflict resolution, and family leadership are all redefined as valuable managerial skills.
Sarah enthusiastically explains: “They taught us that managing a family of four is essentially like managing a small team. When I was able to list these experiences on my resume, numerous job opportunities opened up for me.”
This program isn’t limited to just training. A network of post-program support, connections with partner employers, and individual coaching sessions are other unique features of the Women’s Work Lab.
So, how did Sarah’s story end? Today, with shining eyes, she says: “Not only did I get a job as a project manager at a reputable charity, but I also regained my lost self-confidence. Having an independent income is admirable, but regaining my identity and self-respect is priceless.”
This successful program, based in Bristol, has so far helped over 100 mothers and boasts an 85% success rate in securing employment. Given these brilliant achievements, the Women’s Work Lab is set to launch in Birmingham next month and expand to five other UK cities by the end of the year.
The program managers are taking firm steps towards equal employment opportunities by aiming to remove the negative stigma of career breaks for mothers. They have clearly demonstrated that the period of managing a home and family is not only not a career gap but a valuable opportunity to acquire managerial and leadership skills.
It’s now proven that mothers, with the unique skills they’ve gained from family management, can become impactful members of the workforce and create new paths in the professional world. By changing the traditional perception of mothers’ career breaks, this program is turning a challenge into an unparalleled opportunity for the country’s professional community.
BBC