Abstract:
This paper examines the effects of "Equilibri" a program designed to support mothers of children under 18 in Italy's Piedmont region. The program is specifically aimed to help women who have reduced or stopped working due to motherhood to achieve better work-life balance by improving both employment and work-family outcomes. The evaluation, conducted via randomized control trial, shows positive impacts on employment and work-family balance. Women in the treatment group participated in professional courses, informal meetings, reconciliation support and extracurricular activities for their children. According to the results of our evaluation the program had a positive impact on mothers' employment, work-life balance as well as children well-being. Furthermore, a greater proportion of women in the treatment group expressed a desire to have another child.