Returning to work after a career change or break?
You’re not alone, and there are companies in the UK that want to hire you. This guide highlights top employers offering returner programmes, supportive policies, and structured opportunities designed for people restarting their paths.
What are returner programmes, and why do they matter?
In the UK, employers increasingly recognise that career breaks or changes often result in lost wages and confidence, not potential. Programmes like returnships, structured returner schemes, and relaunch initiatives exist to bridge the gap: offering paid placements, mentoring, upskilling, and often a path to permanent work.
Top UK companies that support career changers
Here are some of the most supportive employers offering structured programmes for those navigating a career shift:
Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Deloitte, Accenture, AWS, Morgan Stanley
– offer formal returnship programmes across finance, tech, and consulting.
Bank of England
– offers a 12‑month returner programme with coaching, mentoring, and a peer returner community.
M&G
– this asset management firm brings professionals back after long breaks (up to 9 years!), with nearly 100% conversion into permanent roles.
Turner & Townsend
– offers six‑month structured roles in the UK for those with two‑year+ breaks, featuring buddying and a real shot at a permanent job.
Schroders
– runs a six‑month returner programme for mid-to-senior professionals; applications open annually in Spring.
FDM Group
– tech/business consultancy with a programme supporting professionals returning after career breaks via upskilling and placement in areas like Data, PMO, and IT Ops.
KPMG UK
– offers tailored Return to Work programmes in Audit, Tax & Law, and Financial Services, with mentoring, flexible hours, and inclusive cultures.
Did you know? All of the companies on ivee are certified returner and career changer friendly.
What makes these programmes work
What do these employers offer that makes returning easier?
- Placements with real responsibilities, not shadowing.
- Structured support through onboarding, mentorship, coaching, and peer networks.
- Genuine conversion potential. Many returners or changes transition to permanent roles.
- Flexible working options, recognising ongoing caregiving or lifestyle needs.
- Respect for what you bring: fresh perspectives, resilience, and real-world acumen.
What to do next: applying & aligning yourself
Here’s how to use this info effectively:
FAQs: What companies support career changers?
Further reading & references
- ivee – overview of UK Returner Programmes and free bootcamp support
- Bank of England – Returner Programme
- M&G Returners programme – features and success rates
- Financial Times – analysis on career break impacts and returnships
Switching career?
Join our free Return to Work Bootcamp to get up to date on the latest recruitment trends, technology, and job search tactics. It’s rated 5* for a reason!
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