Women in UK Construction Materials: Challenges & Opportunities - News and Statistics
Summary
A Holcim UK survey reveals key challenges and opportunities for women in the UK construction materials sector, highlighting issues like career progression and workplace culture.
Why It Matters
Understanding the barriers women face in the construction materials sector is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusivity. This survey sheds light on both the challenges and supportive aspects of the industry, emphasizing the need for structural changes to attract and retain female talent, which is vital for the sector's long-term resilience and performance.
Key Takeaways
- 46% of women cite lack of visibility in senior roles as a major challenge.
- Supportive colleagues and an inclusive culture are prevalent, with 59.2% reporting positive experiences.
- 60.8% of respondents have not experienced gender bias, indicating some progress.
- Visible female leaders are essential for normalizing diversity in the industry.
- The survey serves as a platform for women to voice their experiences and needs.
Search Feb 24, 2026 Survey Reveals Key Challenges for Women in UK Construction Materials Sector A survey from Holcim UK has identified structural and cultural factors creating challenges for women in the UK construction materials sector. The data highlights a lack of knowledge and visibility of senior roles and grading as the top issue, cited by 46 percent of respondents. This is followed by concerns over career progression, mentioned by 37.4 percent, and work-life balance, noted by 35.9 percent. The survey also showed that 38.5 percent of women would not apply for a senior role unless they met every single criterion.On a positive note, respondents reported that supportive colleagues, at 59.2 percent, and an inclusive culture, at 45.1 percent, are evident in the sector. Support from senior leadership was acknowledged by 30.6 percent of those surveyed. According to the findings, 60.8 percent of women reported they had not experienced or witnessed any gender bias or inequality at work, while 39.2 percent said they had encountered or observed such bias.Holcim UK executives noted that the future of the industry depends on attracting and retaining a wider range of talent. They stated that listening to real experiences is essential for designing workplaces where everyone can progress, which they consider crucial for long-term resilience, safety, and performance. One executive emphasized that visible female leaders help normalize diversity in operational and senior roles, buildin...
