Returning to work after a career break, especially for mothers, can be daunting. At our International Women's Day event, Sally Ashby from Women's Work Lab shed light on the inclusivity challenges and barriers faced by women re-entering the workforce.
The Women's Work Lab is dedicated to running training and placement programs specifically designed to support women, especially mothers, in re-entering or entering the workforce, particularly if they are on benefits. Through their work, they've identified numerous barriers that women encounter, many of which intersect and compound each other.
Sally highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the workplace to help overcome these barriers. It's not just about hiring women; it's about making them feel like they truly belong. Regardless of their background or previous experiences, every woman should be able to envision herself thriving within an organisation.
During the event, a thought-provoking insight emerged, highlighting that early life experiences often shape and can limit individual's ambitions within the workplace. Sally's poignant observation, encapsulated in her statement "No five-year-old aspires to be a software engineer," emphasised the critical role of exposure and opportunities in moulding people's work aspirations, particularly for those in underrepresented groups.
Women’s Work Lab are committed to giving mothers returning to work the opportunity to see what career options are available to them so they’re able to shape their worklife in a way that suits their priorities and goals.
Ahead of our International Women’s Day event, we caught up with Rachel Mostyn, Co-Founder and joint CEO at the Women’s Work Lab, to find out more about the work they do. You can read that article here.
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If you're passionate about creating a more inclusive workplace, then becoming a Supporter of the Good Employment Charter can support you on your journey. Get in touch with the expert team to find out more.
