A project aimed at getting women jobs in the construction industry has been launched in Bradford.

Across West Yorkshire, WomenBuild is working with construction companies and colleges as part of a scheme to break down stereotypes and help women to train to become builders, joiners, carpenters and decorators.

Accent Community Partnership (ACP), based in Barkerend, is delivering the project that aims to see eight Bradford women get full-time jobs within the construction industry by March 2007.

Operations manager for ACP, Nawaz Khan, explained that the scheme is open for women between the ages of 16 to 65 who would like to find out more about working in construction and get some hands-on experience. All of the women will complete tests in numeracy and literacy and be given an action plan to suit their individual needs.

At the moment about 30 women have already signed up to the scheme but there are still places available.

"This scheme is ideal for people who want to try something new or are not sure whether construction is right for them. This gives them the opportunity to get any doubts out of their minds," said Mr Khan.

"Just come in and talk to us about it."

Sarah Payne, 25, from Lower Grange, is one of those who have already signed up to the scheme. She explained that she has always had an interest in construction but struggled to find an apprenticeship scheme when she left school because of her sex.

Mrs Payne, who is a self-taught plumber, is hoping that this year-long project will provide her with the necessary skills and qualifications to get a job in construction.

"I think it's brilliant for women. I've got a seven-year-old son who I want to be able to support," she said.

One of the companies that will be offering work experience placements for the women on the scheme is Bradford-based company She Build UK Ltd which was set up by Keith Barber and his sister Jayne last year.

Currently the company employs teams of construction workers to help renovate properties for letting agencies. She Build, based on Ashwood Street, already employs a number of women and Mr Barber is hoping that by being involved in this scheme it will be able to find some new employees.

He said: "This scheme is a really good step forward, I am very supportive and very pleased to be involved with this project."

Rachel Smith, project manager for WomenBuild, explained that the project is aimed at addressing the gender and equality issues in the construction industry as well as meeting the skills shortage.

"The scheme is open to women who are employed or unemployed. It is aimed at women who may have fallen out of the education system and equip them with skills so that they can get a job that is their own," she said.

This project has been funded by the European Social Fund and the Learning and Skills Council.

Anyone who is interested in joining the scheme should telephone Accent Community Partnership on (01274) 303250.