Writing exclusively for the Sunday Express, 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
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.
