Tilia Homes, is encouraging women to apply for site management experience

Tilia Homes, part of the untypical group, is encouraging women to apply for site management experience as part of the Women into Home Building (WiHB) programme.

Women are being encouraged to apply for the funded three-week programme, which includes an initial week of online training and insight sessions, followed by a two-week work experience placement. The programme also offers contributions towards travel and childcare costs.

Developed by the Home Builders Federation (HBF) in collaboration with leading regional and national home builders, the initiative seeks to expand the talent pipeline and foster gender diversity within site management. Women currently account for 16 per cent of the construction workforce, with only four per cent working as site managers.

The Tilia Homes placements are being offered at Landimore Park, in Hardingstone, Northamptonshire; Cashmere Park, in South Molton, Devon and Brook Gardens in Potton, Bedfordshire.

Tilia Homes and its sister company, Hopkins Homes, are among 11 housebuilders to have signed up to the programme, which will provide 38 placements in total offering training, support and work placements. It is the second time Tilia Homes has joined the scheme.

Chris Severson, Chairman at untypical, said: “At untypical, we are committed to working towards driving gender parity across not just our business but also across the wider housebuilding industry. A big part of this is breaking down existing barriers to entry and inspiring more women to consider a career in construction, which is exactly what the HBF programme aims to achieve. The programme is taking steps to help us build a wider pool of talent for the sector and we encourage any woman interested in the construction industry as a potential career to apply, especially those leaving education or would like a career change.”

Last year, Kirsty Newman joined Tilia Homes as part of the WiHB programme. She said: “The placement was a brilliant opportunity to ‘get my foot in the door’ of the construction industry. It has allowed me to explore different areas within construction and see where my interests and skills suit.”

“The most rewarding aspect has been the continuous learning experience. I was able to absorb a wealth of knowledge from my colleagues, both through training and discussions. I’ve been amazed by the number of technical terms I’ve added to my vocabulary! Everyone was incredibly welcoming and supportive.”

Kirsty continued, “During my time at Tilia Homes, I gained a wide range of experiences across various departments within the organisation. I enjoyed taking part in a Women’s Networking Launch, representing a huge stride forward in promoting diversity and empowering women within the company. I was inspired by the Sales Director’s leadership journey and the valuable lessons she shared.”

The application window closes on Sunday 23 March 2025 at 5.00 pm. Those interested are encouraged to apply at HBF.co.uk/WIHB.