Blog

It’s not easy for women to get back to work after taking a break. Ingeus is tapping into the expertise of external agencies to remove barriers for women and get them back in business. 
 

For many women, returning to work after a career break can be a daunting prospect – with multiple barriers in the way. Women usually take on the bulk of caring responsibilities, so it can be a challenge to get back to work. It can be particularly difficult for mothers, who need to navigate the school run and be ready to drop everything if their child becomes unwell. 

 

Women may face additional barriers such as disabilities or health conditions, being over the age of 50, coming from a migrant community or living in an isolated area with poor internet access. As well as looking after children, some women may also be caring for elderly parents or grandparents. The lack of a decent support network will make it harder for these women to find a suitable job. 

 

When you’ve been out of work for a while, it’s easy to feel like your skills have become obsolete. Technologies change and working methods evolve, leaving you out of the loop. This in turn can bring feelings of anxiety. The very thought of going to work, something you used to do every day without question, can bring a gnawing feeling in the pit of your stomach. 

 

We understand that work is good for you, helping you to build your confidence and self-esteem. That’s why Ingeus is proud to work with specialist partners to support women who are returning to work after a break. 

 

One of our partners is Belina Consulting, who teamed up with Ingeus as part of our work with the South London Partnership (SLP). Over the course of the SLP contract, Belina’s unique approach will help 100 women from Croydon and Kingston get ready for or start work. 

 

Belina’s Director Liz Sewell says: “Just like moving house, or having a baby, finding work is something most people don’t do very often – you need someone to help you prepare, who understands how it all works.”  

 

Belina takes multiple innovative approaches to encourage women to think differently about their future. This can include drawing a picture of where they want to be in 10 years’ time. The company holds employability-themed coffee mornings and has an app that sends gentle tips and advice to motivate women. Liz’s team is largely made up of women who live in the areas where they’re helping people and have direct experience as mothers, migrants, lone parents or having English as a second language. 

 

Another partnership project for Ingeus is Account3 in Bethnal Green, east London. Account3 is a dynamic organisation supporting women from diverse backgrounds who are actively seeking opportunities for growth, development, and a brighter future for themselves and their families. These women include refugees, single mothers, migrants, and survivors of domestic violence – each determined to overcome challenges and build a path to success. 

 

Since 2022, Ingeus’ female employees have collaborated with Account3, driven by a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and gender equality. Together, we have supported 69 women, delivering regular workshops and training that foster confidence, strengthen employability, and unlock new possibilities.  

 

From personalised CV guidance to tailored Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) sessions, these initiatives equip participants with the tools to thrive in today’s job market. 

Our partnership extends beyond training. By providing essential resources—laptops, SIM cards, and professional workwear—we’re helping to remove practical barriers to employment and digital access, enabling women to fully engage in their development journeys. Whether online or in person, every session is a step toward financial independence and personal growth. 

 

Ingeus also has an exciting new partnership with Successful Mums Career Academy, a female-led company that helps mums return to work, start a business, or upskill for a new career. So far, Successful Mums have supported more than 10,000 women returners through courses, coaching and free taster sessions.  

 

The company offers career coaching and training courses that are designed and created by mums, specifically for mums, to address a range of challenges they may face when returning to work. They help to build confidence, change mindsets and learn new skills required in the workplace. They provide the opportunity for mums to build support networks with their peers and offer individualised advice on career paths, including starting a business, and childcare options. 

 

The message from Successful Mums is simple: “Becoming a mum should enhance and not halt your career.” We couldn’t agree more!