06.03.2025

The future of FM is female: NHSPS Women in Construction

NHS Property Services (NHSPS) is celebrating International Women's Day by highlighting the incredible achievements and contributions of women in its Hard Facilities Management teams. The organisation’s core values of community, commitment, collaboration, and colleagues—the 4Cs—guide its mission to be an employer of choice and to represent the diversity of the communities it serves.

Three years ago, a significant imbalance was recognised at NHSPS’ Hard FM workforce and the business promptly took steps to address them by launching the "Women in Construction" initiative to attract more women into the field. It started with offering taster days to give potential female colleagues a firsthand experience and now the North Team has six female engineers working in the NHS estate.

Nicola Allred, Maintenance Operative, said: “As the first female engineer in property services, it's fantastic to see how the Women in Construction has grown. It's been a long journey, but the women took it on so quickly, it’s inspiring. In my role, I have the unique opportunity to be a mentor and a mentee at the same time – I'm finishing a Level 4 Plumbing apprenticeship. When I’m mentoring, I really try to get rid of a lot of the myths that surround women in engineering. The end goal for me is to enter the field of environmental sustainability, and I'm keen to get as many women there with me as I can.”

Gill Salisbury, Maintenance Operative, said: “I first took part of the taster day when I was a medical secretary for a GP practice in 2024 and now, I’m a part of NHSPS! It was a fantastic opportunity for people like me who are interested in following their dreams into the industry. It definitely confirmed to me that I’m following the right path and being able to link the information I’m learning in the classroom to what happens in practice was invaluable. Thank you to everyone who spent their time in energy into making this programme.”

Building on the success of the programme, supporting the next generation of young women has become a priority, with the organisation striving to build strong connections with schools in the North of England and provide valuable learning opportunities. So, in February 2024, Year 12 girls from Cheshire were guided by Engineering Mentors through the world of FM as part of their school’s work experience week. They learned new skills in plumbing, painting, joinery, electrics, and HVAC. NHSPS is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women can thrive in Hard FM roles, and says it looks forward to continuing its efforts to empower women and create a diverse and dynamic workforce.

Kevin Showler, Managing Director North, said: “The Women in Construction programme has been a transformative initiative for our organisation. It has not only opened doors for talented women but also fostered a more inclusive and diverse workforce. This programme is about breaking down barriers, dispelling myths, and creating opportunities for women to thrive in engineering and construction. It makes me very proud to see colleagues’ development in this programme.”

Trish Stephenson, NHSPS Chief Operating Officer, said: “This initiative has shown that when women believe in themselves and their abilities, they can achieve remarkable things. We have seen incredible stories that inspire us all. To every woman out there, know that you have the strength and capability to excel in any field. Believe in yourself, and together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative future.”

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