The increasing cost of living is compelling many people to enter or return to the workforce, even those who would have otherwise been on the brink of retirement. Entering or re-entering the workforce can be a challenge for many of us. However, women over the age of 50 face additional challenges when entering the workforce, such as age discrimination, limited training opportunities, and low self-confidence. Council on the Ageing (COTA) is revolutionising this narrative for older women entering the workforce with their program - Women Working Together. This program pairs women with peer mentors who offer guidance, build confidence, tap into networks, and provide useful tips and tricks to navigate the workforce.
Frankie Freeman, COTA's Education and Engagement Manager, is passionate about creating positive outcomes for ageing Australians. Frankie believes the Women Working Together program has a significant impact on the lives of older women. The program takes great care to ensure individualised support, recognising that each woman has unique skills, experiences, and goals. The mentor-mentee pairing is vital to empowering all participants and helping them to achieve their full potential.
While the program was initially designed to bridge the barriers to employment faced by older women, it has grown beyond that by providing individualised support to connect or reconnect women with their community and realise their goals. Some participants are now in fulfilling volunteer roles and sharing their regained confidence with others.
Recognising the value of different life paths and the skill sets they bring can be a learning curve for both participants and employers. By demonstrating the value of older women to the workforce, the program is changing hearts and minds.
The Working with Women program has seen substantial benefits for participants who have engaged in training and education. Participants have found work that aligns with their goals, and that challenges negative stereotypes about older people learning new skills and jobs. Employment can be difficult for many people, but tailored individual support, such as the Women Working Together program, is leading to long-term outcomes for people who face barriers to work. Organisations like COTA are supporting and providing a unique approach to women over 50 who are entering or re-entering the workforce.