For many mothers, re-entering the workforce after an extended break can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Childcare responsibilities, a lack of confidence, and systemic barriers often lead to rejection and frustration. But for participants of the Successful Mums programme, delivered by Palladium in partnership with the UK-based social enterprise Successful Mums, this experience is being transformed into one of empowerment and success.

Rebecca Jackson, a mother who spent 13 years raising her children, had lost confidence in her ability to find work. “I really struggled to find the confidence to look for work due to rejections,” she shares. “But after the Successful Mums course, I have found the courage and confidence to apply for roles I would like, as the course showed me mums can be great employees.” Stories like Rebecca’s highlight the necessity of a programme that addresses both employability skills and deep-seated confidence gaps.

Addressing Barriers to Employment

Since 2014, Successful Mums has helped over 10,000 parents—primarily women—re-enter the workforce or start businesses, emphasising confidence-building and flexible working. Palladium partnered with the organisation to tailor a programme for parents on the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Restart Scheme, supporting Universal Credit claimants who have been unemployed for at least nine months.

Afsa Shire, an Employment Advisor at Palladium, understands these challenges firsthand. A single mother herself, she recalls, “I remember being out of work, thinking, ‘I’m qualified, I’m willing – why won’t anyone hire me?’ I felt like I was being punished for being a mother.” Joining Palladium, where she was offered flexible hours, changed her experience entirely.

Becky Brocklehurst, Director of Delivery at Palladium, adds, “At Palladium, we prioritise flexible working arrangements. Different working patterns matter, and we believe they create a more engaged team. In roles that advise clients—particularly refugees—we value lived experience to ensure our support is empathetic and informed.”

For refugee mothers, the challenges can be even steeper. Many were highly skilled professionals in their home countries but face language barriers, lack of networks, and limited childcare options in the UK. “Within this course, we noticed it with the Ukrainian mums especially – they were really successful back home. To come here, they felt really deflated,” says Shire.

Jane Knight, founder of Successful Mums, reflects, “The partnership between Palladium and Successful Mums Career Academy showcases the power of collaboration between large and small organisations. Combining our specialist support with the Palladium programme creates a winning formula – delivering career clarity and employment for women. A true win-win-win!”

How the Programme Works

The programme offers a blend of practical training and confidence-building. Participants begin with employability webinars led by Successful Mums, followed by in-person workshops facilitated by Health & Wellbeing and Palladium’s Employment Solutions teams. These workshops build peer connections and tailor support to individual needs. Finally, employer engagement sessions connect mothers with businesses offering flexible, family-friendly roles.

Fanda Cole, a participant, shared: “Before the Successful Mums course, I didn’t realise my transferable skills. The first session showed me my potential and introduced me to employment options like LinkedIn and The Open University.” Personalised support like this ensures participants leave not only with a plan but with renewed belief in their capabilities.

Real Impact

Across different regions, the programme is already delivering results.

In Southampton, over three cohorts, 30 to 33 mothers participated, with 11 moving into employment in sectors including cleaning, teaching assistance, catering, warehouse operations, and customer service. Two Afghan refugee mothers secured work – one as a catering assistant and the other as a cleaner.

On the Isle of Wight, two mothers took part, with one securing a position as a school supervisor. In Eastleigh, 14 mothers participated, leading to two employment outcomes: one Ukrainian refugee has been offered a voluntary role with the NHS as a pharmacy assistant, while another mother has started work as a nursery assistant.

Participant Arazo Atia shared her gratitude: “I am deeply thankful to Palladium and the Successful Mums course for giving me the confidence to secure a job that is suitable and works around the school runs.”

This focus on tailored employment solutions ensures that the opportunities are not only accessible but sustainable.

Building Networks and Driving Change

Beyond employment outcomes, the Successful Mums programme fosters a strong community of mothers who continue to support each other long after the sessions conclude. Many participants exchange contact information, meet up outside the programme, and even help each other with childcare. This peer-led support is critical for sustaining long-term confidence, independence, and professional growth.

But individual support is not enough. As the programme expands, it highlights a broader truth: systemic change is essential. Workplaces must embrace flexibility and recognise the value that mothers bring to the workforce.

Employers, policymakers, and community leaders must act to ensure that mothers, regardless of background, are given fair opportunities to thrive. “We are setting an example. Palladium employs mums, and they thrive. Now, we’re holding companies accountable to do the same,” says Afsa Shire.

Through continued investment, advocacy, and a commitment to flexible work, we can build a workforce that is not only inclusive but strengthened by the diverse skills and experiences of working mothers. The success of this programme proves that with the right support, mothers can and do excel in the workplace.