To not have a clue what to do work wise?

[letsgettowork]

I’m turning 30 very soon and feel so stuck in a rut. I’m due an ADHD assessment this week which also makes it difficult for me to decide anything and doesn’t help.

For most of my adult life now, I’ve worked in the criminal justice sector - prison teacher, prison officer, front line civvy in the police. I can’t do a stay in the office on a computer job.
I’m due back to work from maternity soon and I’m dreading it more than just the usual, I’ve been off for ages, adjustment. I feel like I’m ready to do something different but no idea where my skills could take me.
I’ve considered re-training but don’t know how financially viable that will be with two children (married).

I adored working in a prison but left due to the shifts meaning I didn’t get a lot of time with my child and the service going a bit south of late!

Has anyone got any advice / suggestions / would share what they do for a job that might be something I could transfer into? Or perhaps you’ve re-trained?

What about social work?
You could look at the step up to social work course. You will be paid for the course. But you do need to have a first degree.

Social workers have massive case loads which I can imagine would be paralysing with ADHD... What about police officer? Still got paperwork to do but I don't think it piles up like social workers do(?) With your background you'd be a strong candidate and financially a good choice... Then there's the shift work DOH! Hmm that's a flaw in the plan... 🙄🤔

God I was thinking how soft I felt with small kids this morning- an image I f a lamb being killed would bring me to tears, couldn’t watch Gorillaz songs because the kids were sad 😅. So, I totally understand the need to retrain. How about regular teaching/ training/tutoring?

Friend of mine at similar life junction and similar neuro alt mind retrained as a forest school practitioner. Set up her own forest school which parents use as an alternative to a regular nursery, so she's amusing little kids on the woods all day come rain or shine... She has an amazing time, and tells stories of building the most incredible resilience and the kings are less bothered about the weather than anyone! They gave a sheltered area so they're not completely at the mercy of the elements but they are outdoors having adventures every day...

I’d look on your local authority jobs. Your skill set would translate to lots areas inc social care. Usually family friendly and disability friendly employers. Lots of opportunity for training.

Also civil service roles are worth looking at.