Home builders call for women to join careers scheme

The programme is part of the newly updated Home Building Sector Skills Plan, which sets out a blueprint for attracting, retaining and training the future workforce needed to deliver the government’s housing targets. 

The programme’s participants will attend a week of fully-funded online training and insight sessions, designed to build foundational knowledge in site management. 

This is followed by a two-week work experience placement at a local home building site.

To ensure that the programme is as accessible as possible, contributions towards travel and childcare costs are also provided.

As part of the programme, home builders have been sponsoring placements on their sites since 2023, with more than 230 women having received support, career advice and exposure to roles in home building. 

The latest cohort is being supported by a range of regional and national builders, including Anwyl Homes, Bargate Homes, Bellway Homes, Crest Nicholson, Gleeson Homes, Hill Group UK, Pentland Homes, Prospect Homes, Stonebond, Taylor Wimpey, Untypical, Vistry Group, and Wates Residential.

With placements due to start in November, the programme is now open for applications from women who are new to the industry and those who are already working in trades. 

Andy George, director of industry attraction and skills at the HBF, said: “The success of the Women into Home Building programme is a testament to how the industry is proactively working to enhance diversity and develop a skilled and inclusive workforce.

"These efforts play a vital role in attracting a wider talent pool into the sector. 

“As a leading voice in the industry, we are committed to supporting entry routes for women and the practical steps being taken to widen participation.

"Our initiative offers an opportunity for women around the UK to gain valuable skills and progress into future industry management and leadership roles.”

The deadline for applications is midnight on 21 September. Find more information and apply here.