Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 5
5
Paragraph: 24
Women are traditionally under-represented in sectors that have been singled out for Government investment, such...
Conclusion
Women are traditionally under-represented in sectors that have been singled out for Government investment, such as science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and construction. More must be done to tackle gender inequalities in representation and career progression in these male-dominated sectors so that women do not lose out in the recovery.
Paragraph Reference:
24
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
Building Back Better is not about providing support for entire sectors because they provide what are traditionally considered ‘women’s jobs’ but ensuring everyone is able to benefit from the new opportunities opening up in growth areas such as STEM. This is the approach the Government has taken with the Kickstart scheme, which has already helped approximately 16,600 young people take their first step on the jobs ladder. Jobcentre Plus work coaches refer those who would most benefit from Kickstart to the scheme, regardless of their characteristics. Promotional work is underway to boost applications from employers in sectors identified as growth sectors or those not as well represented. Employer engagement teams locally and nationally promote Kickstart take up in these sectors. There is ongoing evaluation to monitor any gaps, including any relating to gender, and put in place measures to even the balance, which include asking work coaches to increase the numbers of female candidates they work with for example. Supporting women to retrain allows women to make the most of new opportunities in existing sectors with growing labour demand, as well as in emerging sectors and occupations. Where a claimant’s skill set does not match the needs in the local labour market, they are encouraged to access a comprehensive range of skills support, which includes: Apprenticeships, vocational and basic skills training, careers advice and the Sector-based Work Academy Programme.