Freda Brennan

The returners programme is designed to support Law Society members on their journey returning to practice, with workshops and other supports assisting solicitors with regulatory responsibilities, upskilling opportunities and other critical return-to-work matters.

Michelle Ní Longáin, president of the Law Society, said: “In the modern working world, people move in and out of professional life for many different reasons. The Law Society is delighted to offer the returners programme to support solicitors who are now ready to re-enter the workforce in their journey to returning.”

Freda Brennan qualified as a solicitor in 2003 and worked in a busy practice for a number of years. After having a long-awaited child, she took an unexpected career break from 2014 until 2019.

Ms Brennan said: “I contacted the Law Society’s career support and they were fantastic. They gave me clear direction and the tools and materials I needed to return to work. I was made to feel that, as a solicitor, I was a valued professional and still had something to offer the workplace.”

She added: “The returners programme is an invaluable service for solicitors returning to work. I am back practising part-time since 2019 and I am delighted I took four years out to spend with my family.

“I would say to anyone to take the time out and the Law Society has the tools to help you back to the workplace when you decide to return. It’s never too late.”

Ms Ní Longáin said: “Regardless of the personal reasons for leaving the workforce, whether it was a pivot in career, personal development, a career break, or for family or caring commitments, returning to practice after a prolonged absence can seem daunting and many feel alone, not knowing where to start or what to do.

“Without support or guidance, it can seem like options are limited and you need to take the first job offered. Through the returners programme, the Law Society is here to help any solicitor who would like to take the first step to return to the workplace.”

The programme has already helped “dozens of solicitors” to return to work, the Law Society said.

More information is available from the Law Society website.