Dalton FP’s Approach to Flexibility and Career Growth

Returning to the workforce after having children can be a daunting challenge. High childcare costs, significant career gaps, and limited part-time opportunities often make it difficult for qualified women to find a balance that aligns with their long-term career goals.

Recognizing the crucial role women play in economic recovery, the government has highlighted women’s workforce participation as essential to future prosperity. The 2021-22 budget places a strong emphasis on workplace flexibility as a key strategy to enhance women’s involvement in the workforce.

At Dalton FP, we’re proud to lead by example in this area. We understand that flexibility is not just a benefit but a necessity for many women returning to work. To support this, we recently introduced a job-sharing arrangement with two highly qualified Client Services Officers, Sally and Sarah. Both are local mothers re-entering the workforce after extended career gaps to raise their children.

Job sharing allows Sally and Sarah to each work part-time while effectively covering the responsibilities of one role. This arrangement not only accommodates their family needs but also ensures that the workload is managed efficiently. For our company, it means gaining two sets of skills and perspectives, enhancing the overall quality of our service.

The benefits of job sharing extend beyond the workplace. It helps alleviate the stress often associated with part-time roles by ensuring continuity and coverage. For the employees, it provides a viable path to re-enter their chosen careers while maintaining work-life balance and managing childcare costs.

Dalton FP is committed to supporting women not just through flexible work arrangements but also by offering opportunities for career advancement and further education. By placing women in management roles and providing pathways for career progression, we aim to address the gender pay gap and support women in achieving their full potential.

Our approach underscores the importance of valuing the contributions of each employee, focusing on the skills and experience they bring to the role, rather than the number of hours worked. At Dalton FP, we believe that investing in our employees’ growth and well-being is key to our success and to providing exceptional service to our clients.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters both professional growth and personal fulfillment. Here’s to continuing our efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of women returning to the workforce and contributing to a more equitable and thriving workplace.