ParentsNext provides opportunities to parents looking for work, linking them to servicing and activities in the local community while helping them build the vital skills needed to participate in their communities and the Australian workforce.

MAX Solutions Managing Director Deborah Homewood said that being a parent can present significant barriers when it comes to finding sustainable employment.

“Personal barriers such as poor health and a lack of suitable childcare, as well as limited financial gains and the ability to find work that fits around nursery or school hours prevent many parents from achieving their employment goals.”

“Self-confidence can be a huge factor when it comes to transitioning into a new workplace or social environment,” Ms Homewood said.

34 year old mother of two Kylie Hicks is one of many success stories from the 2017 ParentsNext pilot in MAX Solutions Wyong. After undertaking a Certificate II in Community Services, Kylie gained permanent part-time employment at local service station.

“With their support, even if it didn’t work out perfectly the first time, I had the confidence to go back and try something else.”

MAX Solutions will be delivering ParentsNext services from 9 sites across Sydney Greater West and the NSW Central Coast.