ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a number of brief insights from literature and an overview of two related research projects and marketplace practice. The chapter set outs a tentative framework for research in an ambition to build momentum and increase knowledge and understanding of the specific contribution of internal mentoring and coaching at this key transition point. If maternity is the metaphorical fork in the road that causes many women to 'off ramp', then the interesting discovery is that this is frequently not the focus of discussion. While internal maternity mentoring is not well publicised, external maternity coaching is now widely available and has been in place in the UK for over 10 years. Maternity coaching is a growing industry in the UK with a number of skilled and expert providers including Talking Talent, My Family Care, and Talent Keepers, who enjoy established long-term client relationships across a wide variety of organisations.
