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Thanks to dedicated funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, North Somerset Council has supported the programme, which combines part-time classroom-based training with a formal work placement at a local employer. This is specifically aimed at mums who have taken a career break or who face challenges in accessing work opportunities.
Participants have benefited from one-to-one career coaching, practical tools such as CV writing and interview techniques, work placement with a local employer, and six months of career coaching and mentoring after the programme ends.
Graduates spoke highly of their experiences, and some have already found a job:
- “I have learnt that I am skilled and talented and have found confidence in my abilities.”
- “Never felt support like it.”
- “I learnt that employers can be a lot more understanding than I thought.”
The graduation ceremony highlights the positive impact of collaborative initiatives that support women returning to the workforce.
Cllr Catherine Gibbons, Deputy Leader of North Somerset Council and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Families and Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to all local graduates, past and present! Seeing so many women grow in confidence and secure new skills has been inspiring. We are proud of you all!
"Bringing this programme to North Somerset is something I’m very pleased to have been a part of, and it shows what’s possible when we invest in local people and support them to reach their career goals.”
Anyone looking for employability support in North Somerset can access the council’s free service, Opportunity North Somerset: Support in North Somerset | In North Somerset