Women in Social Housing (WISH) has teamed up with one of the UK’s leading construction, development, and property services companies in the hope of furthering its goal of creating an equal and fair environment in housing.
By recruiting Wates as a sponsor of the WISH network, WISH aims to further challenge stereotypes and remove barriers for women working in the housing and construction industries.
Commenting on the announcement, Nicola Dibb, executive director and founder of WISH, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Wates.
“With WISH’s objective to support women across the housing and construction industries, and Wates’ plan to become much more inclusive for women, our partnership will be really beneficial.
“It will help us in our mission to address gender equality across the sector and will enable us to support more young women thinking about housing or construction as a career.”
The Wates Group launched a Diversity and Inclusion plan, titled Wates Together, in July 2019.
One of the plan’s ains is to have create a workforce that is more reflective of society – with 60% men, 40% women, 20% BAME, 3% with a disability, and 5% LGBTQ+ across all levels of the business by 2025.
As part of the partnership with WISH, Wates will be hosting webinars, joining panel debates, and taking part in networking sessions on a range of housing and personal development topics made available for WISH members to support them in achieving career success.
David Morgan, managing director of Wates Property Services, said: “Wates is committed to encouraging more women to pursue a career in the built environment and break down the stigma often associated with the industry.
“Through our partnership with WISH, we hope that women at all stages of their career, whether they are just starting out or looking to retrain can get the support and guidance they need.”
The WISH network
The WISH network encourages women to choose a career in the housing and construction industries, in both the public and the private sectors.
WISH runs its network through 10 regional groups across the UK, within which members can meet like-minded women and take part in events.
The network takes its work into schools to support young women to consider careers in housing.
It also assists women already working in the sector to progress and develop.
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