Employers must support people returning from career breaks

Employers need to do more to help people integrate back into the workplace after taking a career break, it has been claimed.

Writing for ComputerWeekly.com, Jenny Williams said it can be "challenging" getting back up to speed in the workplace after taking a year out.

She said this is particularly the case where technology is concerned, as the challenge is multiplied by any industry advances made during an individual's absence.

Ms Williams said every company should have an optional refresher course in the technology being used on a regular basis, to help people re-integrate.

There should be mandatory training in upgrades, developments and new systems, she said – something that would benefit people returning from a gap year adventure.

"If a [worker] has expressed the intention to return to work after leave, they should be given the option of taking on a mentor to fill them in on company developments and new technologies while they are away," Ms Williams said.

Writing for the Guardian, Lisa Bachelor said a year off work can provide "an invaluable opportunity" to boost future career prospects.

She suggested that many professional people are keen to explore this avenue.

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