Government Unveils £4 Million TechFirst Women's Programme to Support Female Employment
Hundreds of women are poised to gain new opportunities in the technology sector through a £4 million government-backed programme designed to address gender disparities. The initiative, announced by ministers, aims to provide paid tech placements and support for individuals returning to the workforce after career breaks.
Comprehensive Support Package for Women in Tech
The TechFirst Women's programme will assist approximately 300 women in securing placements at companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This effort comes at a critical time, as UK unemployment has recently climbed to a four-year high of 5.2%, highlighting growing pressures in the jobs market.
In addition to adult placements, the programme includes expanded opportunities for young girls. Thousands of 12 and 13-year-old girls will receive hands-on experience to explore future careers in technology, ahead of the launch of a UK-wide girls tech competition.
Government Commitment to Addressing Gender Biases
Secretary of Science, Innovation and Technology Liz Kendall emphasised the urgency of the initiative. "I am very aware of the reality women face in tech: women aren’t being given a fair shot – whether that’s getting into the sector, staying in it, or returning after time away," she stated.
Kendall warned that without immediate action, these issues could persist for years. "If we don’t address these unfair biases and barriers now, we’ll still be having this conversation in 10 years’ time," she added.
The Secretary highlighted the practical nature of the programme, noting: "We’re acting through a skills and jobs package to get more women into tech quickly. These aren’t warm words – they’re real jobs, real placements, and real routes back in through a door that has been too hard to open, for too long."
Broader Implications for the Tech Industry
This £4 million investment represents a significant step towards fostering inclusivity in the technology sector. By targeting both entry-level positions and career re-entry, the programme aims to create a more diverse and resilient workforce. The inclusion of SMEs ensures that support reaches a wide range of employers, potentially boosting innovation and economic growth.
The initiative also underscores the government's focus on skills development amid economic challenges, positioning technology as a key area for job creation and stability.
