Under Construction, the learning and skills centre run by Sedgemoor District Council, has reached its target of enrolling 100 women on a pioneering project to help redress the huge gender pay gap in the District.

Ahead of expectations, the ‘100 Women First’ project has managed to reach out to 100 women and offer them a range of opportunities to achieve their personal goals by improving their confidence, skills and well-being.

The project came about after it was revealed that the gender pay gap in Sedgemoor is larger than average.

Caroline Derrick, Sedgemoor’s employment, skills and training officer and founder of ‘100 Women First’ said she was ‘absolutely thrilled’ to have reached the target in just seven months.

“I am so proud of my team and the hard work that has gone into recruiting 100 women and I am also immensely proud of the women who have stepped forward to take advantage of the opportunities we are creating,” said Caroline.

Since the project began, those who have enrolled have been had talks from inspirational women, had visits from local businesses and been given help with upskilling and job applications among other activities.

Under Construction operates out of Lions House, Bridgwater with funding from the xouncil, EDF Energy and 16 partners.