NINE new apprentices have joined Fortis Property Care (FPC)– a subsidiary of Fortis Living, the county's largest social housing provider.

Of the nine new additions three are women, taking the overall number of apprentices being supported by FPC to 18, across different trades.

The three new female apprentices are Sandy Millington, Sally Moon and Evelyn King - all of them starting an electrical apprenticeship.

Along with their new colleagues, the three attended FPC’s first ever Try a Trade day earlier this year. The event – which is testimony to the organisation’s commitment to encouraging more women into trade jobs – welcomed more than 30 women, offering them the chance to learn a whole range of skills, including plumbing, carpentry, electrics and painting and decorating.

Sandy Millington said: “When I was at school, career choices were most definitely based on whether you were male or female.

"I am therefore delighted to join a progressive, forward thinking organisation which is proactively encouraging women into traditionally male roles.”

Evelyn King said: “My friends and family thoroughly support me in my career choice. Infact, some of my friends wish they had joined me as they are worried about job opportunities when they leave college.

"Members of my family work in trade jobs so I have always been aware of the many benefits of working in such a role.”

Sally Moon added: “Training to be an electrician is perfect for me as I have always been good with my hands. It’s a job for life which is so appealing in today’s job market.”

Bill Tebay, managing director at FPC, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome our new apprentices to the team. It is particularly encouraging that three of our latest recruits are female. We continue to work hard to develop diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We would like to wish them all the very best of luck in their new roles.”