Little change in gender balance in construction in 10 Years
Sep 9, 2021 |
Data reported by the CPA shows some improvement, but a way to go in terms of gender imbalance in construction.
CPA Economics Director Noble Francis reported that women accounted for 14.4% of the UK construction workforce in 2021 Q2, but it varies considerably by occupation according to ONS. In Q2, women were only 0.8% of skilled trades and 17.5% of managers and directors but 81.9% of admin and secretarial jobs.
Noble added: It is worth noting that the gender balance in the construction workforce by occupation has changed very little in the last 10 years although there has been a significant increase in the proportion of female managers and directors in construction over the last decade albeit from a low base (from 12.4% to 17.5%).
Commenting of the findings, FIS President Helen Tapper said: ‘It is encouraging to see an increase in female managers and directors, but sadly there is still a long way to go. We need to do more to encourage businesses to be better and to help people looking for careers, regardless of gender, race, sexuality or belief.’
FIS chief exectutive added: ‘FIS is committed to promoting equality and diversity and combatting discrimination within our community and the wider finishes and interiors sector. We have created a toolkit designed to support and encourage individuals and businesses in our sector to celebrate, champion and encourage diversity.’
Data reported by the CPA shows some improvement, but a way to go in terms of gender imbalance in construction.
CPA Economics Director Noble Francis reported that women accounted for 14.4% of the UK construction workforce in 2021 Q2, but it varies considerably by occupation according to ONS. In Q2, women were only 0.8% of skilled trades and 17.5% of managers and directors but 81.9% of admin and secretarial jobs.
Noble added: It is worth noting that the gender balance in the construction workforce by occupation has changed very little in the last 10 years although there has been a significant increase in the proportion of female managers and directors in construction over the last decade albeit from a low base (from 12.4% to 17.5%).
Commenting of the findings, FIS President Helen Tapper said: ‘It is encouraging to see an increase in female managers and directors, but sadly there is still a long way to go. We need to do more to encourage businesses to be better and to help people looking for careers, regardless of gender, race, sexuality or belief.’
FIS chief exectutive added: ‘FIS is committed to promoting equality and diversity and combatting discrimination within our community and the wider finishes and interiors sector. We have created a toolkit designed to support and encourage individuals and businesses in our sector to celebrate, champion and encourage diversity.’
You can view the FIS inclusivity toolkit here.