WHERE does a 'more mature' lady obtain helpful career guidance?

While my children were growing up, I did what I believed was right and stayed at home nurturing them.

For several years I was also a registered childminder, giving the same home care to children whose mothers were in paid work.

Now the children are grown and can look after themselves.

With the youngest just starting university, I could do with some interesting part-time work to help with the fees and to fill my spare hours usefully.

I have A-levels and a degree in maths. I was a computer programmer many years ago but the IT world has moved on.

I have been a sales assistant for five years but do not like pressurising customers. I have done voluntary jobs which have given me much pleasure. But I have no NVQs or vocational certificates and limited work experience.

I am interested in people, willing and quick to learn, and have several years of useful working time left. I am computer literate and only need regular practice to speed up.

I constantly read that we must all be prepared to change career in middle age. I want to take up the challenge, but where do I start?

Mrs M E Slack

High Meadows

Bromley Cross

Bolton