City & Guilds Foundation has awarded funding to support a pilot project led by employment support social enterprise Frameworks, in partnership with Build Salford and Salix Homes, a key provider of social housing in Salford.
The Women in Maintenance project has so far supported seven female social housing residents to gain home maintenance skills including carpentry, tiling and plumbing – empowering them to maintain their own homes and improving their access to paid work.
Four of the project’s first seven participants have now progressed into employment within the housing sector.
The project also aims to make basic maintenance services more affordable for female residents, while addressing their concerns over the sector’s predominantly male demographic.
In addition to receiving high-quality training, the residents benefit from guaranteed interviews and flexible employment opportunities within housing associations, together with access to multi-trade apprenticeships and further training.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority aims to upscale the programme if the pilot proves successful, with potential to expand the provision to other groups facing barriers.
Vanessa, a participant on the programme, said;
“As a single mum, I do everything in the home, and knowing that there will be a cost if I need to get someone in to do DIY made me want to learn these skills myself. My long-term goal is to start my own business and taking this course has built my confidence so much that I believe I can do it.”
Gary Watson, Director, Frameworks Social Enterprise, said:
“The programme addresses the need for female operatives within housing associations, while attracting newcomers into the industry through alternative routes. The group have been really enthusiastic and keen to learn, while the wider group of contractors and housing associations have been proactive in getting the programme off the ground – it’s been a really positive experience.”
Cllr Teresa Pepper, Lead Member for Skills, Work and Business Support at Salford City Council, said:
“This programme is a brilliant example of how we can open doors for women in our communities to explore new career paths and gain practical skills that benefit them both at home and in a potential workplace. Thanks to Build Salford, City & Guilds and supporting partners, these seven women have had a unique opportunity to try something new, build their confidence, and take the first step into a sector that is not always easy to access.”