We often hear about new mums taking career breaks. But what about dads?
More and more dads are wanting to live a more balanced life, taking a more present and engaged role in the day-to-day upbringing of their children. Now, instead of taking a few days’ paternity leave and returning to work as would’ve been expected in previous generations, expectant dads are considering all the options available to them when they discover they’re becoming a father.
Simon from GPS return discusses the options around a career break, and for those that live in Yorkshire, a particularly good offer. The rest of this article are in Simon’s own words.
So, can dads have career breaks? Simply put, yes they can, but I guess you are going to have some concerns.
Career breaks are often perceived as roadblocks. The idea that other people might think negatively of you if you show them a CV with a career break on it. There is very little factual evidence behind this assumption, but it is still a cause for concern. Even to the point where it might actually stop you applying for a job.
But how do you get passed it, where do you turn to for help?
Return to work programmes
There are more and more programs and services out there to help Mums return to work. But what about us, the Dads? Some people might say that, as men, we should just get on with it or that Google will have the answer. I live in Yorkshire and being in Yorkshire you might hear this more often that others and I think we can all agree that neither of those are particularly very helpful.
But there is another option, somewhere you can turn to if you need some guidance. (Which, by the way, is an absolutely normal thing to do if you don’t know what step to take next).
The CIPD Programme
Partnering with the CIPD, we are supporting a programme funded by the Government Equalities Office, which addresses the challenges faced by both employers and returners across Yorkshire and The Humber. We made the concious decision that this programme is targeted at parents, not just Mums, as we are very much aware of the growing number of Dads taking parental leave and will need support when returning to work.
The programme offers a bespoke package of free training and support for parents in Yorkshire and the Humber. It’s for those looking to go back into employment after taking a career break for parental responsibility.
You will receive:
- Employability support with the help of a dedicated mentor through the CIPD Steps Ahead Mentoring programme
- Followed up with additional mentoring / coaching support when you get a job to help you transition smoothly back into the workplace.
We are also working with 24 employers across the region. These include Morrisons, Hallmark Cards, NG Bailey and Burberry. The programme is helping them to develop flexible work policies and ways to make it easier for parents to return work with them. You will also get the opportunity to meet with these companies at the PTS Live event on 15th March 2020 in York.
So how do you get involved? Give me a call (01423 594 843) or drop me an email (simon@gpsreturn.co.uk)! All we ask is that you live in Yorkshire or The Humber, that you have taken some time off work to look after your children and that you are ready to return to work.
The bigger picture – returning to work
Whilst you are at it – what are your views on taking time away from work to look after children and returning to work afterwards?
The CIPD are keen to find out men’s views on taking extended paternity leave (of 3 months or more). To help inform their campaigning activity, please take their short survey: https://www.research.net/r/Parent_Dad_Survey
