In partnership with Marks & Spencer, OPFS runs a Marks & Start Lone Parents Return to Work programme in Edinburgh. This is a free three-day work training course followed by a two-week work placement in a Marks & Spencer store in Edinburgh.

This initiative is part of the Marks & Spencer Corporate Social Responsibility Programme.

Who is it for?

The programme is for lone parents who are thinking of returning to work and have children aged 16 or under.

Childcare costs will be paid and there is the possibility of a training allowance for the programme.

What do participants gain?

Each participant is supported throughout the programme and leaves with renewed confidence, an action plan and a Marks & Spencer reference if requested.

Our success rate

66% of our participants find employment within 13 weeks of finishing the programme.

Upcoming

The next Marks & Start Lone Parents Return to Work programme will be starting on Tuesday 10 June 2008, with the last placement day on Friday 27 June 2008.

There are 13 places available on the programme.

There will also be another programme in the Autumn, from Tuesday 10 September 2008 to Friday 26 September 2008.

Further Information & Contacts

Further information is available from Nicky Sugden at OPFS:
Tel: 0131 556 3899
Email: nickysugden@opfs.org.uk

Download the Marks and Start Programme (PDF, 866kb)
Visit the Marks & Start pages at the Marks & Spencer website