Training Award

South Yorkshire Women’s Development Trust has been ‘Highly Commended’ in the recent National Training Awards. The voluntary organisation set up the Burngreavebased ‘Women’s Construction Centre’ in a derelict space above the Hindu Cultural Centre on Buckenham Street and has been helping to give new skills to women.

The project has delivered courses for women in construction and computer aided design and has included the renovation of their own building. The Messenger went to visit and talk to some of the people involved.

Sandra, who is retired and enrolled on the DIY course, said: “I don’t like strangers coming into my house to do the odd DIY job, not knowing if the work has been carried out properly, and feeling insecure. What I want from this course is to be independent and to be able to maintain my own home.”

Nora, who’s never had the opportunity to do courses before, said: “DIY is the most useful course, from which I have gained a lot of experience and confidence of using power tools. It’s all hands-on without having to worry about making mistakes and making a mess.”

Teresa, also retired, told us, “I have enjoyed the tiling, drilling, sawing, plastering, sanding, and welding. Before coming on this course I wouldn’t know where to start.”

Siobhan is self-employed and has done joinery, carpentry, furniture making and is a painter and decorator. She praised the networking and said: “It gives us the opportunity to meet other traders to exchange ideas and provide support and encouragement.”

Project Co-ordinator Roz Wollen said:

“The construction industry in South Yorkshire reflects the national picture, with nine per cent of those employed in professional roles being women and one per cent of trades people being female. Women who have worked here came initially to enhance their learning and access further training and employment. They also meet other women and gain mutual support.”

For further information, please contact Roz Wollen at the Women’s Construction Centre on 0114 273 7046.

by Kamida Khan