Women will be trained in construction and ICT skills to help find employment thanks to a Belfast-based charity. WOMEN’STEC has received a loan from the Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT) to help deliver this training.

UCIT provides affordable loans to community and social enterprise businesses throughout Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland. As a registered charity, all profits generated are retained and recycled for the benefit of its clients.

WOMEN’STEC began 21 years ago and is the largest provider of training for women in non-traditional skills in Ireland. The charity enables women to return to employment in non-traditional sectors, promoting a diverse workforce and reducing the skills shortage in the construction and ICT industries. Currently they employ five staff and engage with numerous self-employed tutors.

Lynn Carvill, Chief Executive of WOMEN’STEC explained: “The charity was set up to support women in areas of high deprivation, giving them the skills and confidence to get back into employment in decent paid jobs.

“Our last programme ended in March and has yielded fantastic results. More than 400 women obtained qualifications, 80 went on to further education, 43 went into employment, 42 went into voluntary work and 13 became self-employed.

“The loan from UCIT not only allowed us to finish our current programme but helped develop our new one. We will be working with Clanmil Housing residents and have engaged with construction companies such as Gilbert-Ash to help deliver a whole new level of training to women.”

She continued: “There are exciting times ahead for WOMEN’STEC, creating and developing partnerships with the private sector. Our goal is to keep reaching into communities and helping women develop the skills to find employment. We currently work across Belfast but want to eventually work beyond that.”

Speaking of UCIT’s backing for the project, she said: “UCIT have been extremely supportive of our work. Our case worker Sinead was very professional and helped us through a difficult time. I can’t speak highly enough of UCIT and the amazing support they’ve gave us.”

Since its foundation, UCIT has committed in excess of £50m to over 300 charities, community / voluntary organisations and social enterprises. Those interested in finding out more can visit www.ucitltd.com.

Pictured is Lynn Carvill, Chief Executive of WOMEN’STEC with Harry McDaid, Chief Executive of UCIT and Ray Hutchinson, Managing Director at Gilbert-Ash.