News / Women's Work Lab
‘Life changing’ all-female social enterprise celebrates significant milestone
An all-female social enterprise that helps unemployed mothers get back to work has marked a milestone recently.
The Women’s Work Lab, a pioneering initiative based in Bristol with a regional focus across the South West, has supported its 500th mother since it started six years ago.
Founded by Camilla Rigby and Rachel Moystyn, Women’s Work Lab participants are empowered through bespoke employment programmes designed to facilitate a return to work.
The organisation’s model combines part-time classroom-based training, work placements, and one-on-one career coaching and mentoring, offering a holistic approach to reintegration into the job market.
Women’s Work Lab was founded by Rachel Mostyn (left) and Camilla Rigby some six years ago
The programmes, which are fully funded and free of charge, have been lauded for their personalised support.
Participants gain not only the technical skills required for their chosen field but also the confidence and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of modern career pathways.
The Women’s Work Lab’s success has not gone unnoticed at a national level, with multiple accolades to its name.
Women’s Work Lab participants are empowered through bespoke employment programmes designed to facilitate a return to work
The initiative’s significant contribution to supporting women in the workforce was formally recognised by former prime minister Rishi Sunak when Rachel and Camilla were awarded the Points of Light Award for helping to address unemployment and gender inequality in the workplace.
The co-founders were also recognised with the University of Cambridge’s Social Innovation Prize, which included a £10,000 prize and pro bono mentoring in long-term strategy, legal advice, and team development.
The co-founders, Rachel and Camilla, said: “Reaching our 500th Mum milestone means the world to us.
“We are so proud to have been able to give our amazing mums the much-needed confidence boost and training to help them get back into work – and crucially, to find jobs that work for them and their families.
“All too often, mums feel trapped and lost when it comes to re-entering the workplace after having children, and we’re determined to tackle that.
“The mums coming through our programme are incredible women – and there are many more mums out there who need help. We’re so excited to help the next 500 women and to grow even more.”
The Women’s Work Lab, a pioneering initiative based in Bristol with a regional focus across the South West, has supported its 500th mother since it started six years ago
According to the figures compiled by Women’s Work Lab, within six months of graduating from its programmes, 71 per cent of mums are in either employment, volunteering, or further training.
With spaces currently available for its next intake in April, the programme continues to grow in both reach and reputation.
For more information on the April intake, visit www.womensworklab.co.uk/apply-now
All photos: Women’s Work Lab
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