MUMS in North Somerset are being offered the chance to take part in a free programme designed to help rebuild confidence, develop skills, and get back into work.

North Somerset Council is supporting The Women’s Work Lab to offer a free 12-week programme in Weston-super-Mare at the end of September.

The course, paid for using dedicated funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, will combine part-time classroom-based training with a formal work placement at a respected local employer.

It is designed specifically for mums who have taken a career break or who are struggling to access work opportunities.

Participants in the employability programme in North Somerset will benefit from:

• one-to-one career coaching
• confidence-building support in a friendly peer group
• practical tools such as CV writing, interview technique and job search skills
• guaranteed work placement with a trusted local employer
• six months of career coaching and mentoring after the programme ends

Crucially, the course is free of charge, run during school hours, and includes financial support towards childcare costs (participants must arrange their own childcare).

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Councillor Catherine Gibbons, NSC deputy leader and cabinet member for children’s services, families, skills and lifelong learning, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for mums in North Somerset to take that next step towards work or training in a way that fits around family life.

“We’re proud to support initiatives like The Women’s Work Lab that build confidence, open up opportunities and provide the skills and networks that women need to succeed.”

Applications close on Friday, September 19, for a September 2025 start, via www.womensworklab.co.uk/apply-now. For more information about the UKSPF programme in North Somerset, visit innorthsomerset.co.uk/ukspf.

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