Mrs Meier, what is the gap in the market?
A social enterprise based in Zurich, comprising a restaurant, a shop offering takeaway and bistro-style dining, and a workshop. In all these establishments, unemployed women are prepared for entry into the labour market. «Die Marktlücke» is committed to their social and professional integration and aims to empower them at every level.
Their situation is often made more difficult by limited knowledge of German, a lack of vocational training or training that is not recognised, as well as experiences of violence or flight.
Who exactly is this aimed at?
Unemployed women who receive social security benefits. Most of them are mothers who shoulder the bulk of domestic and care work, or who, as single parents, have no support. They face significant barriers when looking for work, as their family responsibilities mean they have little flexibility in terms of their time. Their situation is often made more difficult by limited German language skills, a lack of qualifications or unrecognised qualifications, health issues, social isolation, and experiences of violence or displacement.
How do you help the women?
This gap in the market creates a professional environment in which women can gain work experience, build their self-confidence and take their first steps towards self-employment. We offer 50 supported employment placements in the retail, catering and manufacturing sectors – with flexible working hours. The women's interests and skills determine where they undertake their supported employment placement. There, they are supported and guided by employment support workers.
They can familiarise themselves with their chosen profession and develop key skills such as German language proficiency or interpersonal skills, whether through customer contact in the shop or when interacting with restaurant guests. Every woman is supported by a social worker should any questions or challenges arise.
The support programme also includes German language tuition and job application coaching. After an average of one year, most participants are ready for the next step, often into the labour market. Many then benefit from our network of partner companies, which frequently take on participants from the support programme. Anyone wishing to support Marktlücke can shop with us, dine with us, host an event or commission our workshop – and in doing so, create opportunities for women.
