Home | Support Area | Skills and Employability

Skills and Employability

Skills and Employability

Many women are unable to fulfil their potential to live an independent and empowered life because of barriers to securing employment. 

Upskilling women with low education outcomes is the obvious solution, but for many women who are vulnerable or facing multiple barriers, supporting them to meet their immediate needs  (for example suitable housing or accessing benefits they may be entitled to), as well as improving their wellbeing and aspirations for the future, is necessary before they can be in a position to consider embarking on training.  

The risk of homelessness and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety are common factors preventing women from pursuing opportunities to develop their skills or enter the workforce.

Women who are affected by abuse may also be excluded from training or the workplace because of a controlling relationship or low self-esteem. 

Women who are single parents, or who are living chaotic lives, may face barriers to training or employment if there is inadequate childcare available.  

Read on to find out how Women’s Work tackles the complex barriers towards education or employment through our holistic and person-centred programmes. 

Womens-Work-Derbyshire-013

Helpline & additional information

The National Careers Service provides information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions about learning, training and work.  Their website nationalcareers.service.gov.uk helps you explore your skills, your career options, and learning opportunities.  Call 0800 100 900 to speak to an adviser.  Open 8 am – 8 pm Monday – Friday, and 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays.