Support for women returning to work should start before they even leave their jobs, SCWO study finds
Flexible work arrangements were the most desired form of support among women polled, and could help them stay employed, return after a career break and remain in their jobs afterwards.
A Singapore Council of Women's Organisations (SCWO) study suggests that support for women returning to work should start well before they leave their current jobs. Flexible work arrangements were the most desired form of assistance among women polled, helping them stay employed, return after a career break, and remain in their positions.
The study, titled "Women's Workforce Re-entry: Challenges, Barriers & Opportunities," found that support must begin before a woman leaves the workforce and continue after she returns. Women at various life stages, including younger mothers, mid-career professionals, and women aged 50 to 65, participated in the research. Flexible work options emerged as the top desired support, cited by 61% of respondents.
However, flexibility alone was not always sufficient for job sustainability, as workloads and career progression remained crucial factors. The study also revealed differing concerns among PMET and non-PMET employees regarding practical training, schedules, workplaces, and pay. SCWO plans to establish a Women's Workforce Inclusion & Re-Entry Working Group to address these issues across the return-to-work journey, from maintaining employment to finding suitable roles and post-return support.
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