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OU launches toolkits to break down barriers for mothers returning to work

The university will work with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to train career coaches across its 600 Jobcentres. 

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OU launches toolkits to break down barriers for mothers returning to work
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The Open University (OU) has launched two toolkits aimed at supporting working mothers and primary caregivers returning to work. 

The launch followed an evidence review by academics at the university that found 10 main barriers affecting mothers across the UK. 

These included stalled career progression, wage gaps, less work experience, and systemic bias.

One toolkit is for employers, giving advice on how to recruit, retain and develop mothers and primary caregivers. 

The other is aimed at mothers and primary caregivers themselves to help them return to work with confidence.

The university will work with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to train career coaches across its 600 Jobcentres. 

The partnership will see work coaches use the toolkits, run webinars, and offer workshops to support mothers and primary caregivers looking to re-enter the workforce.

Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “Everyone across Britain – including parents and primary caregivers – should get the opportunity to build a better life for their families through secure and good work.

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“These Open University toolkits, to be delivered through Jobcentres via our brilliant Work Coaches, will be transformative in breaking down barriers as we roll out our Get Britain Working reforms under our Plan for Change.”

A panel event in Westminster in April marked the launch. 

Justine Roberts, founder of Mumsnet, Joeli Brearley, founder of Pregnant Then Screwed, and author Tobi Asare joined interim Vice Chancellor Josie Fraser on the panel.

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Roberts said: “The motherhood penalty has long been an issue that holds women back, despite their ambition and talent. 

“This campaign is a crucial step towards changing outdated workplace norms and ensuring that mothers have the opportunities they deserve.”

Brearley said: “The evidence is clear: the motherhood penalty is real, and it’s damaging the careers, wellbeing, and financial security of women across the UK. 

“Employers must step up and take action, and initiatives like this will help them do just that.”

Asare said: “Mothers don’t lack ambition—what they often lack is the structural support to turn that ambition into action. 

“The campaign is powerful because it moves beyond awareness and focuses on the practical tools and policy changes needed to unlock real progress. 

“It’s about reshaping the narrative and building systems that work with, not against, working parents.”

The evidence review highlighted that the motherhood penalty is still a problem in UK workplaces, caused by structural barriers, societal expectations and employer practice. 

The report said more workplace flexibility, as well as cultural change, is needed so mothers can progress at work without giving up on family responsibilities.

Additionally, a previous survey by the university found nearly two in five mothers were worried about a lack of flexible working hours. 

Over a quarter said they were concerned about fitting study around parenting. 

Nearly half said flexible learning options would make them more likely to retrain.

Fraser said: “At The Open University, we believe that higher education should be accessible to all, and this includes mothers and primary care givers, who often face career setbacks due to systemic barriers. 

“Through the Mumentum campaign, we are equipping both employers and mothers with the tools they need to break down these obstacles and create a more inclusive, supportive workplace.”

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