A two-part programme that provides community support and practical tools to improve the return-to-work experience

Transition-back Workshop

A half-day experience to begin your Branch journey (Central London or Remote)

  • Bringing together a group of ∼10 women returning to different organisations, we will share experiences, form personal connections and build a peer support group. An experienced coach will guide the group and share helpful tools for transitioning back to work. Some models the workshop will cover:

  • → Transitions

    → Spheres of control & influence

    → Managing overwhelm & underwhelm

    → Setting boundaries

  • Branch works with a network of experienced maternity coaches. Each has first-hand experience of returning to their careers after maternity leave and working directly with women on this journey.

Community events

90 minute quarterly events that provide longer term support and community connection (Remote)

  • All Branch members will be invited to virtual sessions illuminating common challenges experienced by the wider community with helpful tools. We will invite guest speakers and provide structured networking opportunities.

  • → Navigating flexible working

    → Strengthening your village

    → Visioning and goal setting

FAQs

What is Branch?

Branch is a programme designed to connect women at the point of return, and provide them with support, structure and a network to channel their ambition. Your Branch experience will start with a half-day workshop (in-person or remote), after which you gain access to our quarterly community events.

Who is it for?

Branch is for:

  • Women who have recently returned to work

  • Seeking to balance being a mother with continuing to build their career

What will I get out of it?

Combat feelings of isolation and overwhelm by connecting to other women going through a similar experience.

“It's so nice and good to know that others are experiencing similar, to share and realise that the challenges are normal and not insurmountable’
- Imogen

Build back confidence and channel ambition allowing you to focus on career goals from the moment you return 

“I felt very well supported by a great coach as well as the brilliant women in the group. sharing our ups and downs has been very empowering”
– Nora

Grow a new professional network and participate in a wider community of working parents, creating new opportunities

“It has been amazing to be connected to other women in a similar position and have the opportunity to speak openly and honestly about the challenges we are facing”
– Sarah

How does it work?

The programme begins with a half-day guided workshop. You will attend this alongside a group of women from different organisations, who are each experiencing their return to work after maternity leave. Our facilitators will guide your group through a series of models designed to help you process the transition.

Following this workshop, you will be invited to join our quarterly community events. These sessions are designed to help you connect with our wider community, and provide practical long-term support with the process of returning to work. All sessions are 90 minutes and take place via Zoom (to allow for maximum participation).

Who will run the sessions?

Branch works with a network of experienced maternity coaches. Each has first-hand experience of returning to their careers after maternity leave and working directly with women on this journey. You can read more on our team page.

How do I pay for it?

Branch can be funded by your employer. Discounted places are available for women who are paying for themselves. Once you sign up, we’ll be in touch to discuss pricing.

When should I join Branch?

We have found the Branch programme most beneficial to women in the first 0-6 months of their return. Most women join a group in the first three months, but many find it equally valuable in months 3 to 6.

Some women do choose to join the Branch programme ahead of their return to work, especially if they cannot find time in their schedule once they are back at work. This is also possible, but this might mean you are dealing with hypotheticals rather than reality.

What topics are covered in the programme?

  • 1. Transitions

    We look at the transition we are undertaking and reflect on the value of our parental leave. What did we learn? What new experiences and skills are we proud of? We discuss the process of returning and what to expect.

  • 2. Spheres of Control

    We discuss our spheres of control as working parents. What is in our control? What can we influence? What is out of control? This empowers women to think practically about their new working life as a parent.

  • 3. Operating Model

    We build our operating model for success. How do we design our week? What resources and key activities do we need? How can we manage our mental health and well-being? What boundaries do we need to set?

  • 4. The Village

    We map out the village of people that will help us achieve. Who do we have at home? How can family and friends help? Who are our professional advisors, confidants and connections? We discuss how to cultivate these relationships.

  • 5. Future Visions

    Our final session is about our future. We articulate our vision. Where do we want to be in 10 years, 2 years, 6 months? What objectives and goals do we put in place to get there, and how do we stay accountable?