RETURNING to work after a lengthy break is a major decision.

Working out how to balance the demands of work and home, choosing the right childcare and knowing where and how to start on a second career are some of the challenges that face back-to-work parents and others.

Many benefit from returning to work and enjoy meeting different people, taking up new challenges and using new skills.

New skills mean new challenges, more responsibility and higher pay, so it's worth getting to grips with today's hi-tech office.

Although the workplace may have changed, the good news is that there is plenty of flexibility at work nowadays, so you can look for exactly what will suit you.

When is the right time?

There is no such thing as the "right time" to go back to work.

If you are thinking of taking the plunge, go out and talk to others in a similar position.

Find out how they feel, how they make it work on a practical basis and discuss your own concerns with them.

What are my options?

If you know that you want a full-time job then obviously that is what you can concentrate your efforts on.

However, if you feel you need to be at home in the school holidays or just want to work during school hours, there are a number of options you can consider.

Flexible working is becoming more common and it may be that working part-time, temping or job sharing will help you juggle the demands of home and work.

Temping

If you would prefer not to commit yourself long term, or want to be able to experience different work situations before you do so, then temporary work could be the answer.

The best way to find this is through a reputable employment agency.

Part-time

More than five million women work part-time, which can be up to 30 hours a week.

Thanks to legislation, part-timers' rights on redundancy, maternity leave and sick pay are now in line with full-timers and everybody is entitled to paid holidays.

Job-sharing

This is when two people share one job. When it works well it is a brilliant arrange-ment and often allows people to go into areas of work that aren't available to them on a part-time basis.

However, you need to think about whether you could manage on half a wage and whether your type of work can be shared.

Where can I update my skills?

Some employment agencies offer free training in keyboard and computer skills as well as in customer care and telesales.

Local Training & Enterprise Councils may also offer short courses for returnees wanting to move into business.

You can also take an evening class in a variety of subjects at an adult education college. Some are specially aimed at those who have been out of work for a while.

Universities may also organise courses.

Jobs online

If you are interested in using the internet for job hunting, you can look at jobs local to you and right across the country as well as leave your details so you can be contacted when appropriate opportunities come up.

Are my skills relevant?

Yes, because while you have been away you have probably been doing many of the tasks that are required in business today.

You are exactly what many employers are looking for - someone who is flexible, hard working, responsible and reliable!

How do I prepare?

You will need to put together a CV, which highlights your achievements and strengths and you may also like to prepare a portfolio that summarises your past experience.