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These graduates, who had struggled to find employment that met their needs and aspirations after having children, are now equipped with the skills and confidence needed to help them re-enter the world of work.
North Somerset Council supports this programme thanks to dedicated funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The graduation ceremony was a celebration of the achievements of all 14 women completing the programme over the last 12 weeks.
A special congratulations goes to Hannah and Inesa, who have both secured paid employment before course completion. Both will be joining the team at Elmtree Learning Partnership; Hannah as a support worker, and Inesa in recruitment. Many of the women are attending interviews in the forthcoming weeks, and North Somerset Council congratulates them and wishes them the best of luck.
The Women's Work Lab hosts a 12-week course specifically designed for women who are out of work. It combines face-to-face expert training with a formal work placement at a local employer.
The programme aims to build confidence through teaching new skills as part of a supportive peer group. After the initial training, participants receive six months of support from a mentor and ongoing career coaching. All training and work placements are scheduled during term-time and school hours, making it accessible for mums.
The graduates, who come from diverse backgrounds, shared stories of personal growth and professional development throughout the programme.
“We invest in our kids all the time without thought but this is the first time I've invested in myself.”
“Coming in I felt anxious and like I couldn’t sit in the room with people I didn’t know, compared to now where I’m excited to see the people I have formed relationships with and I'm excited to be here. This gives me the hope to believe why couldn’t that be the same with going into work?”
“My confidence has been at rock bottom for so long I wouldn't have gone it alone. Each session has got me to the place I am now. I can’t actually express how motivating and confidence building it has been. Being told you are worth it and believed in has helped me so much. Before, a challenge would have had me running in the opposite direction but now I feel like yeah, I can give it a go. Which is a big deal for me”.
Cllr Catherine Gibbons, Deputy Leader of North Somerset Council and Executive Member for Children’s Services, Families, and Lifelong Learning said: “It was an honour to join the mums at the graduation ceremony. I am so pleased to have played a role in bringing the Women’s Work lab to North Somerset and to celebrate not only the achievements of these amazing women but also the spirit of empowerment and transformation that drives The Women’s Work Lab. These graduates have shown that with the right support and their determination, they can overcome obstacles and build a bright future for themselves and their families.”
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Placemaking and Economy, said: “We are delighted to support The Women’s Work Lab and its efforts to empower women in our community. The success of this programme demonstrates the importance of providing accessible training and support to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. We are proud to see these women achieving their goals.”
Feeling inspired? Applications are now open for the programme starting in September. Apply now via the website: www.womensworklab.co.uk