ADRA, North Wales’ largest housing association, hosted a day celebrating women that work in social Housing (WISH) on Wednesday (August 9) at the National Eisteddfod.

The aim of the event was for girls and women to come and see for themselves that there are opportunities for them to explore in social housing. 

Traditionally, many of the jobs in this industry have been male dominated and Adra and our colleagues in WISH are at the forefront of attracting females to work in construction and housing.

The guest speaker was Sasha Wyn Davies, Adra's vice chair, sharing her passion for regeneration and housing.

Panellists included Fflur Jones from Darwin Gray, Alwen Williams from the North Wales Ambition Board, Elliw Llyr from Isle of Anglesey County Council, Emma Williams from North Wales Housing and Adra’s director of customer and communities, Sarah Schofield.

Sarah Schofield said: “It’s important that women and girls are given the opportunity to explore construction and social housing as there are so many different opportunities.

“From professional roles such as HR, finance and IT through to technical roles such as surveying and development as well as operational roles such as plumbers, plasterers, and community wardens. 

“This is why we support and host events throughout the year to give women and girls the opportunity to find out what it’s like to work in such a great industry. 

“Academi Adra also plays a vital role in this.”  

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In the last year, 43 young people have received vocational training through Academi Adra, with four going on to gain full-time employment. 

This scheme is about providing an opportunity for all, and breaking down barriers to ensure that everyone can succeed.

More than 65 girls from Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle, Penygroes had a taste of working in the field of construction as part of an event called “Not Just for Boys” earlier this year.

Adra led this event together with Chwarae Teg, a charity that inspires, leads and implements gender equality in Wales.

Sara Fon Williams, a project manager at Adra, is pleased with the progress made this year.

She said: “We’re really proud of what we’re achieving at Adra and can’t wait to welcome more women into the industry.

“I can’t stress enough how challenging, yet rewarding it is to work in social housing and Adra offers training and guidance throughout the whole process.”