The council, with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is backing The Women’s Work Lab to offer a 12-week programme in Weston-super-Mare at the end of September.
This initiative combines part-time classroom-based training with a formal work placement at a respected local employer, specifically targeting mums who have taken a career break or are finding it difficult to access work opportunities.
The participants will receive one-to-one career coaching, confidence-building support in a welcoming peer group, and practical tools like CV writing and interview techniques.
They will also be guaranteed a work placement with a trusted local employer and will benefit from six months of career coaching and mentoring after the programme concludes.
The course is free of charge, runs during school hours, and includes financial support towards childcare costs.
However, participants must arrange their own childcare.
Applications close on Friday, September 19 for a September 2025 start.
Visit womensworklab.co.uk/apply-now to apply, or for more information about the UKSPF programme in North Somerset, visit innorthsomerset.co.uk/ukspf.
Past participants have spoken highly of the programme, stating that it gave them the right tools and steps needed to find a new job and provided an incredible support network.
Cllr Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s 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.”