The Women and Work: Sector Pathways Initiative from ConstructionSkills, which set out to help 1,800 women access work related training and support in the construction industry was so successful it actually helped 2,200 women during its first phase.

Now the government has pledged a further £660,000 which will allow the programme to continue for a further three years and to expand. As well as encouraging women into the industry the programme will address the issues of retention and career development.

During 2008 goals for the programme include recruiting female apprentices, graduates and women returning to the workforce, self-employment programmes for women in crafts and trades, and opportunities for women to progress their careers throughout the construction industry.

Sir Michael Latham, chairman of ConstructionSkills, said: "Women and Work has given us the opportunity to invest in a wide range of entry and progression routes for women in the industry.

"We have worked with employers to provide health and safety and technical training, professional development and mentoring support for graduates. I am delighted that the programme has been extended as it will allow us to continue building on these positive outcomes."

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