Women 1st Marches On

More women in hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism can benefit from subsidised training and support designed to help them boost their careers, after People 1st secured government funding to extend its Women 1st programme for a second year.

Women 1st was established after research revealed a major gender imbalance at top-level management in the sector – despite the fact that 56 percent of the workforce is female, only 6 percent of board level executives are women.

Following a hugely successful pilot year, People 1st has obtained funding to put 225 more women through the programme, which comprises the following elements:

• Step Up – a continuous professional development programme aimed at equipping potential female leaders with the confidence and skills they need to succeed. More information...
• Leadership Network – a strong mentoring network which supports women in their careers, including one-to-one mentoring with the sector's highest performers. More information...
• NEW FOR 2010: Female Chefs' Development Programme - a programme to develop, design and deliver bespoke chef training for women, addressing the skills gaps that present barriers to career progression and development, and helping them to work in more skilled positions. More information...
• Regional Connects – locally hosted, part educational events where inspirational speakers share their success stories. The events also include sharing best practice and case studies of employers and individuals who have found practical and engaging ways to encourage women to fulfil their career ambitions within the sector.

Over 100 women took part in the Women 1st programme in its pilot year, and it has received glowing feedback from its participants. Andrea Hamer, events manager at ABode Hotels, says: “The Step Up programme has completely changed my life,” she says. “Before, I felt like I was standing still and not going anywhere. Now, I feel confident, and my career has really evolved.

“I have recently been promoted from events coordinator to events manager and now take on a more operational role, with an assistant to train and delegate to.”

To find out how you and your business can be a part of the Women 1st programme, call 01895 817000 or email: women1st@people1st.co.uk