Price Rises force parents to dust off CVs

Cost of living pressures are forcing many local parents like Jennifer Whyte to return to work earlier than they'd like according to Samantha Blake, Assistant Manager, Sarina Russo Job Access Greensborough.

Ms Blake said returning to work is a very daunting and scary prospect for many parents, particularly single parents.

"That's why Sarina Russo Job Access Greensborough has developed a plan to help parents like Jennifer become job ready in industries such as retail, hospitality, administration, manufacturing, aged care and childcare," Ms Blake said.

Jennifer said Sarina Russo Job Access helped her up-skill with the right training which was a real confidence booster.

"Even though it was nerve wracking, I was determined to get a job so I needed to show my consultant at Sarina Russo Job Access and any potential employer that I was full of enthusiasm.

"I was very lucky to be referred to a family-friendly employer like 'All About Kids by Best & Less' and I was so excited when I got the chance to prove myself.

"I've been with 'All About Kids' for six months and my customer service skills improve every day," Jennifer said.

'All About Kids' Regional Manger, Justin Gill said parents returning to the workforce are a perfect fit because they understand the value of the products we sell and they also want flexible hours which suits our business.

"With skill shortages being felt across the local business community parents returning to the work have so much to offer and are certainly an untapped source of employment," Mr Gill said.

Ms Blake said for most parents it's important to help them:

identify parental skills which relate to today's job market;
inform them of local child care and community help options;
dispel any 'loss of entitlements' myths such as health care card or pension card; and
educate them on the local labour market and types of jobs available;
recommend any relevant training to help them become 'job ready'; and
mentor them to build their confidence both before and after starting a new job.

"Most parents tend to need assistance with resumes, interview techniques, and career counselling and access to family friendly employers.

"There is so much talent in our local suburbs and local business will benefit as more and more parents return to the workforce," Ms Blake said.