Returning to Work: Here's the Guidance
The Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit, BA) in Germany provides targeted assistance to individuals who want to return to work after parental leave, long-term care for relatives, or who wish to change careers. This support is extended to those who belong to the "silent reserve," a term referring to individuals not currently active on the labor market and not receiving benefits such as unemployment insurance.
Key ways the BA supports these individuals include career counseling and guidance, qualification and retraining programs, job placement assistance, and financial support. Through personalized advice and planning services, the BA helps individuals identify suitable career paths when returning to the labor market after a break due to family responsibilities or a desire to change professions.
To improve employability, the BA supports vocational training, further education, or retraining initiatives that enable individuals to update or acquire new skills relevant to their career goals. The agency also provides active placement services, matching returning or career-changing individuals with suitable job opportunities and employers. Under certain conditions, the BA may grant subsidies or allowances to support retraining or transition periods, especially for those who have been out of the labor market for an extended time due to caregiving or parental duties.
While the figures regarding the "silent reserve" are provided by the Federal Statistical Office, the BA aims to facilitate reintegration into employment and enhance long-term employability for those affected by career interruptions caused by family care or other personal circumstances.
Individuals who hold residence and have contributed to social security can register with the BA upon return to the job market, enabling access to these support services and potentially unemployment benefits if applicable. For detailed guidance, individuals typically contact their local employment agency office, which provides tailored advice and support considering the person's specific situation.
In summary, the Federal Employment Agency supports individuals returning from parental leave, caregiving, or seeking career changes via counseling, retraining programs, job matching, and financial assistance to aid their successful reintegration into the workforce. The BA's Career Guidance in Employment (BBiE) service, designed for people who want to change careers, also extends to individuals belonging to the "silent reserve." Interested parties can book appointments online with the BA's Career Guidance in Employment.
Education and self-development can be facilitated by the Federal Employment Agency (BA) through personalized advice and planning services, helping individuals identify suitable career paths after a break due to family responsibilities or a desire to change professions. Career development opportunities, including career counseling, qualification and retraining programs, job placement assistance, and financial support, are also offered to support the successful reintegration of individuals back into the workforce.
