Whether you are returning to work after a break to raise a family or after a career break, returnships may well be something you could be interested in.Similar to internships, a returnship allows people to get back into the world of work after a break.
There are returnships available throughout the year in the UK. Some of the schemes are tailored to women who come back after time spent with their children or for anyone simply returning to work after a long break.
The history of returnships
Goldman Sachs was responsible for creating the first ever returnship opportunity. Around ten years ago, the famous investment bank also created the word returnship and started the ball rolling.
Since then, a large number of companies around the world have set up their own returnship schemes.
What are they for and who are they for?
They are internships, in that you are not guaranteed a job at the end of the period. However, they are for qualified professionals who have taken a voluntary break from work, and now want to rejoin the world of work. A returnship offer is not limited to past employees and is open to both men and women although there are some schemes geared exclusively to women.
It’s down to the individual company, but the average returnship lasts for up to six months and can be as short as three months. The company will usually provide a fixed-term contract that is paid according to experience.
While on the returnship, you can expect support from a mentor dedicated to you and your return to the work environment. This will be a more experienced member of staff who is able to show you the processes in the workplace. The mentor can help in easing you back into the work environment, helping you with new IT systems for example. The main responsibility of the mentor is to ensure you do not feel overwhelmed on your return to work.
Are there any negatives?
It can be disheartening if you do not get a position after the returnship which is a possibility for a variety of reasons , for example no open head counts after the end of the returnship.
It could depend on the reason you left in the first place. If you had health or stress related issues, you may need some additional help to ease you back into the world of work.
For more advice on returning to work after raising a family , click here.
Below is a list of current UK Returnships.
