MUMS have praised a 12-week course that helped them rediscover their confidence and learn they are “skilled and talented”.

Graduates of the Women’s Work Lab programme in Weston-super-Mare are celebrating the successful completion of a 12-week course aimed at helping them build confidence, develop new skills, and access guidance and opportunities to return to work.

The course was provided thanks to dedicated funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and supported by North Somerset Council (NSC).

It combines part-time classroom-based training with a formal work placement at a local employer, specifically aimed at mums who have taken a career break or who face challenges in accessing work opportunities.

Those taking part 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.

One said: “I have learnt that I am skilled and talented and have found confidence in my abilities.”

And another added: “I learnt that employers can be a lot more understanding than I thought.”

A graduation ceremony highlighted their achievements, and Cllr Catherine Gibbons, the council’s deputy leader 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.”

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