A toolkit for employers everywhere

When parents return to work after maternity leave or a career break, they can experience: guilt, worry, anxiety, self doubt, lack of confidence and isolation.

Returning parents can really give themselves a hard time, adding a lot of internal pressure around perfectionism and expectations.

It can be a stressful and isolating time and I’ve spoken to very confident and successful people about how they have struggled with this transition.

The impact of specialist support for working parents can include: connection, wellbeing, belonging, confidence, effective coping strategies, productivity, value, feeling less isolated and having a positive perspective and mindset.

“I also feel better able to support other parents at work and I can see how I would like to make a difference as a senior member of staff.”

Parents can add so much value to the workplace:

In addition to their existing skills, knowledge and experience, working parents can bring so many additional skills and qualities:

time management
resilience
determination
different perspectives
problem solving
adaptability
multi-tasking
leadership
stress management
communication
conflict resolution
fortitude
empathy and understanding
conscientiousness
drive for change

“Being able to talk like this has been so positive. Returning to work after having my baby has been going well but I’ve been full of doubt and I keep feeling like I have to prove myself.”

“It’s great to have access to resources to use
as I need to, with relevant topics
and practical information.”

“Chatting with other parents in a safe space with someone who is experienced in these issues has made me feel less alone as a returning mum. And now I feel like I have supportive network.”

Working parents can benefit from:

employee support groups
flexible working opportunities
a supportive culture
an understanding of the challenges for returning parents
a schedule for their return
recognition of their work and achievements
encouragement of a work/life balance
effective communication
supportive colleagues and managers
realistic goals

With a warm, professional approach to put
parents at ease

I offer a simple, personalised experience with parents so they can feel supported, while also able to develop strategies that work for them.

Having worked and talked with parents in pregnancy, for birth, with babies and during life as a young family, I understand the issues faced by parents returning to work and I am well placed to provide information, support and reassurance.

With workshops/discussion groups, 1:1 conversations and resources, you can offer a unique programme of support for working parents within your organisation.

I work with small business and large organisations everywhere and I’d love to talk to you about supporting working parents.

Janine Smith, Antenatal & Postnatal Specialist
* Strengthening knowledge
* Providing insights into working with & supporting parents
* Creating community, conversations & reassurance for parents