Even today, female jobseekers have fewer opportunities on the labour market than men. Although women have a wide range of skills and are usually highly motivated, they are often unable to make full use of their potential on the labour market.
In September 2023, women accounted for 52 per cent of employees subject to social security contributions in the Salzland district. In contrast, female employees made up the larger share of marginal and therefore usually lower-paid employment relationships at 55 per cent (data source: statistics from the Federal Employment Agency). It is much more difficult for women than men to find gainful employment that covers their needs. They are more often dependent on their spouse's income or on state benefits to cover their living costs.
The Salzlandkreis Job Centre currently looks after 5,833 women entitled to benefits. Of these, 539 are on parental leave. Caring and nursing work in the family continues to be largely carried out by female family members. The associated career interruptions have a direct impact on the careers and income situation of the women concerned. The issue of childcare also plays a key role when it comes to starting or returning to work.
In recent weeks, the Salzlandkreis job centre has therefore offered special events on the topics of "Returning to work and re-entry" for parents on parental leave. These were aimed at women who are looking for training or work for the first time after parental leave, who want to re-enter working life or who want to reorient themselves. Migrant women also found their way to the event, as in addition to topics such as organising childcare and opportunities for part-time employment during parental leave, information was also provided on participation in integration and professional language courses.
The project was organised by Mr Stefan Scheffler, Equal Opportunities Officer at the Salzlandkreis Job Centre.
The Equal Opportunities Officer for the Labour Market (BCA) advises and supports Job Centre employees as well as third parties in matters relating to equal opportunities in basic benefits for jobseekers. Key topics include the advancement of women, crisis intervention and work-life balance, but networking in the context of labour market integration is also a central task of the BCA. "In addition to identifying the skills and career aspirations of those seeking advice, needs-based funding and support services are crucial for a successful entry into the labour market," explains Scheffler.
The task of implementing equal opportunities is enshrined in the German Social Code as a legal mandate. This includes not only the equality of women and men in the promotion of employment, but also, for example, the professional advancement of migrants or single parents. If you have any questions, please contact Mr Scheffler.
Contact details:
Commissioner for Equal Opportunities on the Labour Market at the Salzlandkreis Job Centre