Mothers Into Work (MIW), founded by entrepreneur and social activist Farzana Sarwar, addresses the significant challenges faced by unemployed mothers in the UK, helping companies meet their corporate social responsibility goals by adding social value and building a talent pool of employees.
Inspire
MIW takes a multifaceted approach to supporting mothers who feel disempowered and overwhelmed by the barriers such as high costs of childcare and lack of flexible work. The organisation provides free, mother-friendly workshops on CV writing, interview techniques, IT proficiency, and career mapping, tailored to fit around mothers’ schedules. Confidence-building sessions help mothers rediscover their potential and inspire them to re-enter the workforce.
Collaborations
MIW collaborates with employers and training providers such as the City of London Corporation to create mother-friendly work experience placements in order to build confidence and engagement with employers. Successful work experience placements with Mace Interiors highlight the effectiveness of this approach as candidates felt more confident in their abilities.
Economic independence
MIW’s programmes aim for long-term economic independence by offering continuous support through mentorship, advanced training and introductions to employers. This helps mothers maintain links with employers and gain up-to-date references and advance in their careers. They also foster a supportive community for mothers to share experiences, seek advice, and build networks. Sarwar states: “Our organisation advocates for policies supporting working mothers, such as affordable childcare and flexible working hours, to create a more inclusive labour market.”
Sustainable
MIW’s blend of intensive initial engagement and sustained long-term support aims to transform the lives of unemployed mothers. By addressing both immediate and future needs, MIW creates a sustainable and impactful difference in the lives of mothers and their families. MIW has successfully worked with Ukrainian mothers and has been nominated as a finalist in two categories – equality, diversity, and inclusion, and allyship – in the National Inspiring Women in Construction Awards.
As MIW grows its reach in all industry sectors, Farzana Sarwar urges contact with her organisation “to add social value, recruit talent, and build a loyal workforce as we are growing our reach in all industry sectors.”
www.mothersintowork.com
