Your break is part of your story
Career breaks happen for all sorts of reasons: caring, illness, raising children, study or travel. Employers are used to them. A short, confident explanation is all you need.
Explaining the gap
In your CV and cover letter, give the dates, a one line reason, and anything useful you did, such as volunteering, courses or running a household. Then move on to what you can offer now.
Refresh your skills
Free courses, Skills Bootcamps and funded level 3 qualifications can update your skills and show employers you're ready. Our opportunities page lists free and funded options.
Look at returnships
Returnships are paid placements for people coming back after a break, often with training and a mentor. They're common in sectors such as engineering, finance and technology.
Ask for what you need
You can ask for flexible working from your first day in a job. If you have a health condition or disability, you can ask for reasonable adjustments, and Access to Work may help with costs.
Common questions
How do I explain a career gap in an interview?
Keep it short and honest: why you took the break, anything you learned or did, and why you're ready now.
Are there paid programmes for returners?
Yes. Returnships are paid placements for people coming back after a break, often with training and support.
Can I ask for part time hours in a new job?
You can make a flexible working request from your first day, and many employers advertise flexible roles.
References: GOV.UK, Flexible working; GOV.UK, Access to Work; GOV.UK, National Careers Service.