Midlife women could provide one solution to the labour shortage in our region, a sold-out event at the Guildhall in Cambridge heard.
The issue was discussed by Midlife360 CIC, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and business and academic member organisation Cambridge Ahead.
An audience at the event heard that like most of the UK, our region is struggling under the strain of acute labour shortages, impacting on productivity, growth and competition.
At the same time, women in midlife are disengaged from the workplace, confronting barriers such as digital skills gaps, caregiving responsibilities, age discrimination, and health issues.
The Combined Authority and Cambridge Ahead commissioned research from RAND Europe that led to the establishment of Midlife360 CIC, an independent social enterprise dedicated to addressing the hurdles faced by both midlife women and employers.
Midlife360, co-founded by Sally Field and Ingrid Fawcett, has been working behind the scenes for more than a year to establish an impact-led social enterprise.
Intended as a change-maker, its vision is to transform the region into one where every woman in midlife has the confidence, skills and ability to thrive within a positive work culture.
Sally said :"As a co-founder of Midlife360, I've seen both sides of the spectrum first hand. From navigating the challenge of re-entering the workforce after raising a family, where I initially underestimated my transferable skills and focused too heavily on perceived knowledge gaps, to now collaborating with regional employers who recognise the immense value midlife women bring and want to know how to attract them into the workforce."
“Undoubtedly, there are very real challenges such as digital skills gaps. Midlife360 is here to support women in these areas without charge, judgment, and at their own time and pace. Simultaneously, we work with employers to pinpoint the reasons behind the underrepresentation of midlife women in their job applications and implement feasible adjustments.
“Thanks to an award from BIPC Jumpstart, a Cambridgeshire and Peterborough grants and support scheme, www.midlife360.co.uk will soon be a full online platform bringing all stakeholders in the region together, making a real change to the futures for both midlife women and employers.”
Midlife women wanting to enter, re-enter, or progress within the workplace, or start their own business can register interest at Midlife360 CIC’s website.
Employers keen to find out how to engage with an army of resourceful, motivated women, should contact Midlife360 CIC for collaboration opportunities.
Visit midlife360.co.uk or email hello@midlife360.co.uk for more.
