returning to work

Going back to work after a career break? Whatever your circumstances, we're ready to help make the process as seamless as possible.

 

If you’ve been away from work for an extended period, whether due to illness, maternity leave, or long-term unemployment, the thought of returning can feel overwhelming. You might be dealing with self-doubt, anxiety, disrupted routines, or the challenge of finding new work.

Whatever you're going through, we’re here to help you manage your mental health, navigate your return, and come to terms with a difficult situation.

Young family around the breakfast table

keep your career going while on maternity leave

Are you on maternity leave and wondering about your career? This article contains plenty of practical guidance on keeping in touch with your employer, getting back into work mode and easing yourself back into work.

Two men at work talking and smiling

returning to work after a career break: making sure it goes well

Going back to work after a career break can be daunting. You can feel nervous, unqualified and out of the loop. However, there are certain things you can do to make sure your return goes as well as possible. Discover what they are.

Two women in kitchen with small child, cooking

how to achieve a better work-life balance

Having a good work-life balance isn’t a myth. It’s something all of us can achieve, with some planning, foresight and discipline. Here, we reveal the secrets to achieving a better work-life balance.

training and events

13 May 2026 12.30pm – 1.30pm BST

communicating compassionately

Want to build trust and rapport? Learn key strategies like body language and listening with compassion to foster meaningful connections.
espresso series
21 May 2026 12.30pm – 1.30pm BST

authentic happiness

What actually makes us happier, and what does the science say about it?
espresso series
27 May 2026 12.30pm – 1.30pm BST

anxiety relief toolkit

Master practical techniques to ease anxiety, uncover its causes, and build your personalised toolkit for calm and confidence.
espresso series
4 June 2026 9.30am – 12.30pm BST

develop your personal brand

Your personal brand is how others perceive you. Learn how to use it to make an impact and advance your career, from your CV and LinkedIn profile …
enhanced webinar

view all training and events 

your questions answered 

Who is eligible for support?

We support past and present members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW), ACA students, ICAEW staff members, and the family and carers of members and students. 

Not sure if you’re eligible? Use our interactive eligibility tool to check if you or your family could get support.

Are your services open to everyone, regardless of financial situation?

Most of our services, including mental health support and legal advice, are provided free regardless of your financial circumstances. For our financial grants, we will conduct an assessment, looking at your income and assets, to determine what help we can provide.

I’m an accountant, but not a member of ICAEW, can you still help?

Unfortunately not. We only support past and present ICAEW members, their carers and their families. If we are unable to support you, where possible we will point you to help elsewhere. Please visit the ACO members page to see if there is another occupational charity that can assist you. 

caba has supported me in the past; can I receive support from caba again?

We assess all applications based on current circumstances. Whether you’ve received support in the past or not, we’ll discuss all your options with you. Please call us if you need our help.

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