In June, Brent Cross Town partnered with Women into Construction to deliver an employment programme for local women living in Brent, Barnet or Camden.

Women into Construction is an organisation that promotes gender equality in construction. This career programme was delivered in collaboration with The Skills Centre and sponsored by Brent Cross Town. Out of 37 applications, 16 women were recruited to the programme and received full training and certification as part of their five-week placement.

Certifications included the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) , Level 1 of Health and Safety Construction training and the National Open College Network (NOCN) Level 1 certificate in Basic Construction Skills.

The women also went through a speed interview session with all 14 participating employers, to which they were matched for two-week work placements. Employers were from the best construction providers in the UK such as Galldris, JRL, Munnelly, Principle, Smart, St. George & Willerby. The women gained plenty of experience in their two-week placements by undertaking different roles such as traffic marshal/ gate person, security officer, document controller, site manager, and more. In total, 12 women completed their work placements.

One participant said: “The programme has helped me to learn how to work effectively towards my goals. I learned new skills and on-site experience. Women into Construction helped me to do things that I really enjoy.”

Another participant added: “I have a more focused approach now, got more clarity on what employers expect and overall, I am feeling more confident that I can restart my career soon.”

Five women received employment immediately after the programme and participants overall improved their awareness and understanding of careers in construction.  As well as gaining a better understanding of what employers are looking for and the roles available, by supporting participants financially for travel, and providing childcare whilst on programme, it enabled them to commit to and focus on the programme.

This programme was successful in achieving its ambition of providing women with a great experience opportunity in the construction industry, as well as supporting and encouraging women to apply for construction roles. The end of the programme was marked by a celebration with partners at The Visitor Pavilion where participants were awarded with their certificates.

Brent Cross Town is the new park town at the heart of the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration programme, which is being delivered in partnership between Related Argent and Barnet Council.

Keep up to do on all opportunities across the programme here.