Returning to the corporate world after a career break can be a daunting prospect. However, numerous UK-based resources are designed to support women in making this transition smoothly and confidently. Below, we explore some of the most effective programs and initiatives available.
Jump to:
- Returnship programmes – structured pathways back to work
- Bootcamp programmes – an alternative to returnships
- Government and charitable initiatives
- Online platforms and communities
- Training and upskilling opportunities
- Networking and mentorship opportunities
- FAQs: resources to help women transition back to work
- Final thoughts: best resources to help women transition back to corporate roles after a career break
- Further reading & resources
Returnship programmes - structured pathways back to work
Returnship programmes are tailored initiatives that offer experienced professionals a structured re-entry into the workforce. These programs typically include training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, often leading to permanent roles.
Top UK returnship programmes:
- Goldman Sachs’ returnship programme: A 12-week paid programme offering roles in finance and operations, with mentorship and training provided.
- Amazon’s returnship programme: A 16-week programme focusing on roles in technology, operations, and corporate functions, designed to help professionals reintegrate into the workforce.
- Deloitte’s return to work programme: A 25-week programme offering roles in consulting and advisory services, with comprehensive support including coaching and development opportunities.
- Accenture’s returnship programme: A 16-week programme focusing on roles in consulting and digital transformation, providing training and mentorship to facilitate a smooth transition back to work.
These programmes are ideal for women who have taken a career break and are looking to re-enter the corporate sector with the support of structured training and development.
However, returnship programmes often have limited spaces due to the high costs involved and do not always lead to permanent positions.
Bootcamp programmes - an alternative to returnships
If you’re looking to return to the workforce after a career break but find returnships too competitive and too few, return to work bootcamps offer a flexible and supportive alternative.
While returnships provide hands-on corporate experience, bootcamp programmes focus on building skills, boosting confidence, and AI-competency, preparing you for the next steps in your career.ivee’s Return to Work Bootcamp is a free tailored programme designed specifically for women looking to return to the professional workforce. It has an impressive 5* rating on TrustPilot and includes:
- Personalised CV & LinkedIn support: We help you craft a standout CV and LinkedIn profile that highlight your transferable skills and experience, making you an attractive candidate for employers.
- Insight into the current recruitment market: Learn about changes to recruitment and job applications that have happened while you’ve been away. Meet new technologies, such as Applicant Tracking Systems and algorithms.
- Interview coaching: Get insider tips to help you excel in job interviews, boosting your confidence every step of the way.
- Access to flexible job opportunities: Through ivee’s platform, you’ll have exclusive access to flexible roles across multiple industries, allowing you to find the work-life balance you need. Each role and company is hand-vetted for their returner-friendliness, so you can be sure that you’re entering the right environment for you. Check out how they score each company using a Returner Rating.
While returnships are fantastic for the few that get into one, bootcamps are the perfect solution for women who want to ease back into the workforce at their own pace, with the support and flexibility they need to succeed.
Government and charitable initiatives
Several UK government-backed and charitable initiatives aim to assist individuals returning to work after a career break, particularly those who have taken time off for caregiving responsibilities.
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Returner toolkit by GOV.UK
This resource provides practical advice and guidance for individuals returning to work after a career break, focusing on areas such as CV writing, interview preparation, and confidence building.
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ivee
A platform that works with employers to recruit people on career breaks and provides personalised support to individuals re-entering the workforce.
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Smart Works
A UK-based charity that helps women prepare for job interviews by providing interview coaching and professional attire, boosting confidence and employability.
These resources are particularly beneficial for women who have taken a break for caregiving, sick leave, or redundancy and are seeking guidance and support to re-enter the workforce.
Online platforms and communities
Online platforms and communities offer networking opportunities, job listings, and resources tailored to women returning to work after a career break.
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ivee
A platform that connects women with flexible job opportunities and provides community support. It offers a free Return to Work Bootcamp, which includes CV and LinkedIn profile support, interview help, and access to exclusive job opportunities.
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LinkedIn
Professional networking site that offers various groups and resources for women returning to work, including job postings, networking opportunities, and career advice.
These platforms provide valuable resources and networking opportunities for women looking to return to corporate roles after a career break.
Training and upskilling opportunities
Enhancing existing skills or acquiring new ones can significantly improve employability and confidence when returning to work.
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Pitman training
Offers flexible training programmes providing individuals with practical skills and recognised qualifications, supporting career returners in updating their skill sets.
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London skills and development network
Provides adult courses for those looking to retrain in a new career or return to work after a break, focusing on areas such as IT, business administration, and customer service.
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Midlife MOT – your work
A government initiative offering advice and guidance on careers, including reviewing skills, looking for work, and returning to work, particularly aimed at individuals aged 45 and above.
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ivee Learning Portal
ivee’s curated free resources for any job seeker looking to return to work after a career break.
These training programmes are designed to help women refresh their skills and gain new qualifications, making them more competitive in the job market.
Networking and mentorship opportunities
Building a professional network and seeking mentorship can provide guidance, support, and potential job leads.
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Everywoman
A UK-based organisation that advocates for the advancement of women in business. It provides personal development resources, leadership training, events, award programmes, and networking opportunities for women in business and female entrepreneurs.
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AllBright
A career network for women, including a community, leadership training, and coworking spaces for ambitious women.
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ivee
A platform that combines community with practicality. Designed specifically for women returning to work, ivee offers an all-in-one solution to the career break problem.
Engaging with these organisations can help women build valuable connections and gain insights into various industries.
FAQs: resources to help women transition back to work
Final thoughts: best resources to help women transition back to corporate roles after a career break
Transitioning back into corporate roles after a career break is entirely achievable with the right resources and support. By leveraging returnship programmes, government and charitable initiatives, online platforms, training opportunities, and networking avenues, women can navigate this transition successfully and confidently. Remember, the skills and experiences gained during a career break are valuable assets that can contribute to a fulfilling and successful return to the workforce.
ivee is the all-in-one platform for your return to work, designed to take you from ‘I don’t know where to start’ to ‘I got the job!’
Further reading & resources
- ivee’s Return to Work Bootcamp: A free, comprehensive program that includes CV support, interview coaching, and access to exclusive job opportunities tailored to women returning to work after a career break.
- Smart Works: A charity that helps women prepare for job interviews by providing coaching, professional attire, and confidence-building services.
- LinkedIn Learning: Offers various online courses to help women refresh their skills and gain new qualifications as they transition back to work.
- Pitman Training: Provides flexible, recognised training courses to help women upskill and boost employability when returning to work.
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Join ivee’s next free Return to Work Bootcamp. Get up to date on the current job market, CV best practices, and LinkedIn & interview tips.
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