Pay
Report
Apply
Date: 15 June 2026
Belfast City Council has become the first local authority in Northern Ireland to sign up as a champion for the #NotJustForBoys initiative.
This campaign is an initiative led by Women’s Tec to support young women and girls to enter and sustain employment in sectors where they are underrepresented – such as construction, gardening, transport and mechanics.
Councillor Ian McLaughlin, Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee said: “The #NotJustForBoys initiative is aimed at getting young females in schools to consider careers that may have seemed unimaginable to them.
“Within Belfast City Council, we are currently recruiting for painting and decorating apprentices, and this is a fantastic opportunity for women and girls to break into a highly skilled, rewarding trade within Council. The role is combined with a recognised qualification meaning successful applicants will be able to earn as they learn.
“As part of our commitment to the #NotJustForBoys campaign, Belfast City Council will provide the training, supportive environment, and mentorship needed for female tradespeople to thrive.
“By introducing girls to technical and trade skills early, the #NotJustForBoys initiative is also fully aligned to the Council’s Gender Action Plan – which aims to bridge the gender pay gap and promote equality in employment across all Council jobs.”
Helen Kerr, Head of Business Development at Women’s Tec said: “We are proud to welcome Belfast City Council as the first council to join us as a #NotJustForBoys Champion.
“Having Belfast City Council stand alongside us is hugely important, not only because of the practical support they bring, but because of the powerful statement it sends about the importance of gender equality and inclusive opportunities for all.
“Their commitment demonstrates that creating opportunities for women and girls is not the responsibility of any one organisation alone, but something that requires collective action and leadership across our communities.”
As part of the strategic partnership, Belfast City Council will actively support the campaign with Women’s Tec through practical workplace initiatives including hands-on skills taster sessions and providing specialised work experience placements within council trade departments.
Belfast City Council’s recruitment campaign for apprentice painters and decorators is open until Monday 29 June.