Millions of middle-aged workers are currently considering switching jobs, a recent survey by ING Direct has revealed.

Almost one in four people aged between 30 and 50 was currently considering trying a new career, the survey found.

"A flexible job market and changing social attitudes mean that workers no longer need to make do with their existing job if they are unhappy, " says Lindsay Sinclair, chief executive .

A career break is often a chance to take stock of employment options, especially for those craving a life beyond filing cabinets and computers.

"People often look for a change in their careers because they want something more challenging, " says Karen Skidmor, who's a business support provider.

"After having kids, many women also need a job that is more flexible for their childcare arrangements."

Skidmore says it's important to look at the reasons behind changing your career. "Are you jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire or are you genuinely looking for a new challenge?

"Taking time out to write down your thoughts and getting some help clarifying them can be great way of deciding what to do next. If you understand yourself and what makes you tick in your job, your foundations for success will be a lot stronger."

Amanda Robb, commercial manager at Thorpe Molloy Recruitment, says: "Agencies play a valuable role throughout the life of a person's career.

"We find that people that we have placed will often come back to us when they are ready to take the next step along the career path.