Exploring the systemic barriers returners face and offering solutions to build a more inclusive STEM sector.
2024 findings at a glance
This 2024 STEM Returners Index has provided valuable insights into the ongoing challenges and progress faced by returners re-entering the workforce. The 2024 data highlights key trends, including the growing impact of supportive programmes, shifts in job application strategies, and the persistent barriers many returners still encounter.
Below are the key takeaways from our 2024 research.
42% of those attempting to return are female, 58% are male, and 40% are from minority ethnic backgrounds.
Returning individuals are experienced and highly qualified, with 75% holding a degree, master’s, or doctorate.
Desire to return to work for passion also saw a notable increase in 2024 (44% vs. 33% in 2023), and 40% of returners reported missing the challenge (up from 30% last year).
Caring responsibilities (both children and other) is the most common reason for a career break, with only 15% taking one out of personal choice (vs. 13% in 2023).
Financial reasons remain the number one motivator for returners (49%).
Professionals from minority ethnic groups were twice as likely as White British candidates to apply for more than 70 jobs.
46% of candidates reported that they ‘hardly ever’ or ‘never’ received feedback on their applications (vs. 44% in 2023).
40% of returners reported feeling that they had personally experienced bias in the recruitment process, up from 33% in 2023.
65% of returners report finding the process of re-entering the STEM industry either “difficult” or “very difficult”.
54% of successful returners favoured returner programmes over traditional recruitment channels as a route back to employment (up from 40% in 2023).
Read and download our full STEM Returners Index 2024 here
Have questions about our index?
If you’d like to learn more about the STEM Returners Index or have any specific queries, please feel free to contact us via the link below and one of our team will be in touch.
